Loulou's Reviews

A CHEESY giveaway for YOU!

2012-02-13T13:28:00.000-08:00

The holidays are over, Valentine's Day is upon us, and soon, winter will be over. Sure, I'm optimistic, but there is nothing I am looking forward to more than seeing green grass and blue skies again. I love having friends over for appetizers and drinks, especially when we can make use of the backyard patio. I also love coming up with new and tasty snack ideas for my guests - and my children, too!

Parmalat Canada recently sent me an amazing package La Crème Cow - a new line of spreadable snack cheeses that I fell in love with! My boys, of course, also could not get enough. Available in three delicious flavours, Original, Light, and Parmesan and Peppercorn, each wedge of cheese has a delicious mild taste with a very smooth and creamy texture. La Crème Cow spreadable cheese is a great everyday snack option because it is convenient - each piece is individually wrapped and can easily be stored and spread on whatever you enjoy.

We love ours on crackers, and I have to say, it's hard to just stop snacking on this tasty treat! Of course, what good is enjoying a tasty snack like this if I can't share it with my readers?

I'd love to send one of you a $100 exclusive La Crème Cow review pack which includes product coupons, cheese tray with utensils/serving plates/napkins, and an assortment of yummy crackers!

All you have to do to win? Leave me a comment below telling me what your favourite snack is!

This giveaway is open to Canadian residents only, and I will randomly pick a winner on February 18th.

Good Luck!

Love month!

2012-02-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

February is all about love, don't you think? Of course tomorrow is Valentine's Day, so that means there will be NO mention of the word diet, right? I mean, what good is Valentine's Day if you can't enjoy chocolate and everything sweet and oh-so-sinful?

I love everything red, pink, and white on February 14th. Especially if it comes in the form of something sweet to eat! Like the icing on these most delicious cupcakes... mmmm!

I also think this chocolate sweetheart cake is simply fabulous!

A special treat to make for your loved one and/or your children on the 14th. And it's really simple to make, so you don't have to spend all of Valentine's Day in the kitchen!

Leave it to my friends at Life Made Delicious to come up with cute, easy to make treats for every event!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Fisher-Price Moms: Keeping busy in the winter!

2012-01-31T12:01:00.000-08:00

My children love summer and spending time outside. Usually, we're either at the park, or in the pool during the hot days of summer. I find it a bit more challenging to find fun and creative things for my boys to do when we're in the middle of winter. Luckily, my boys don't dislike winter as much as I do, and they love playing outside. (I'm usually waving at them from the window, staying warm inside!)

We just got back from our annual vacation to south Florida, where we spend a week a gorgeous resort, where there was so much to do for the children. However, our vacation is only one week long, so I have to think of other ways to keep my boys busy in the winter! Here are some of the things we do to stay busy:

Crafts - I have a few boxes of crafts that I take out on weekends and set up the kitchen into a craft zone. I let them get messy, and have fun! I love displaying their art work in the play room in the basement, too.

Making a band - My boys (especially my four year old!) love music. We have a drum set in our house now, and we'll create our own band, and sing and dance the time away.

Movie nights - Some nights, my boys love to cuddle on the couch and eat popcorn while watching a movie. I'm a big fan of this, since it means I get extra cuddle time with my boys enjoying a yummy snack!

Building snowmen - My boys love going outside to build snowmen, and to just play freely in the backyard. When you're six and four years old, what's not to love about the snow, right?

Playing school - This is a fun game for the boys, as they take turns being the 'teacher' while learning! It's fun to see them interacting with one another this way, while at the same time learning something new, too.

Visiting museums - We are members at all the museums in Ottawa, and we love visiting different museums on the weekends. It's a great way to do something fun and educational while staying warm indoors!

For even more ideas on how to keep busy with your little ones, check out this awesome link on the Fisher-Price website that'll help you keep your kids busy - and warm - this winter!

Disclosure: I am a Fisher-Price Mom and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Healthy eating: Healthy YOU!

2012-01-30T12:41:00.000-08:00

I recently went for an ECG. I was having chest pains, and although I thought it was likely because I am over-stressed with never enough time to get all the things done that I need to get done, I did not want to not get checked out, because when it comes to anything heart related, it's important to take action.

I quit smoking over a year ago, I stay physically active and I eat well... most of the time. One of the reasons I love the recipes on the Life Made Delicious website is because they're easy to make (for me this is very important!) and some of the recipes are very healthy, for the entire family to enjoy.

Like the Greek Beef and Orzo recipe - I am going to try this soon and I hope my kids will love it! (How could they not, really? We are Greek, after all!)

I am also looking forward to cooking the Healthified Chicken and Broccoli-Parmesan Pasta Recipe - pasta and parmesan are my two favourite words! I know my kids will definitely love this meal, too.

Another thing to keep in mind: maintaining a low cholesterol diet is very important.

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

HEXBUG Nano: A review!

2012-01-11T05:21:00.000-08:00

This Christmas, my three year old was extremely excited to open a few big boxes under the tree—he had no idea what was waiting for him, and when the paper was finally ripped off, he was screaming with delight. Yup, before him was an entire world of HEXBUG Nano's!

I first fell in love with HEXBUG's at BlogHer in 2010, in New York City. I was lucky enough to bring some home to show my children, and they thought they were the neatest little creatures!

This holiday season, I was so excited to be given the opportunity to review the entire HEXBUG Nano line. I received:
　
1 HEXBUG Nano 5-Pack
5 Glows in the Dark HEXBUG Nano bugs
1 Glow in the Dark HEXBUG Nano Habitat Set
1 HEXBUG Nano Spiral Starter Set·
1 HEXBUG Nano Bridge Battle Habitat Set
1 HEXBUG Nano Elevation Habitat Set·
1 Carton of “Bug Food” (batteries)
1 Mini Screwdriver
　
The hard part was hiding these boxes somewhere in my house where my children wouldn't find them! I also had such a hard time not showing them the boxes right away, because I knew they'd be beyond thrilled.
　
HEXBUG Nano's are the cute little bugs that don't scare me as much as the real ones do—and they're so realistic! They act like real bugs, flip over by themselves, and look real, too.

We put together the HEXBUG Nano Spiral Starter Set first, and it was so cool to see the bugs buzz around on two levels—they had so much to explore, and my boys had so much fun watching and playing! The customized track is expandable and interchangeable with all other Habitat Set products, so we were able to create our own 'world', too.

The HEXBUG Nano Elevation Habitat Set is amazing—it features a multi-level sprial and bridges that can basically hold the entire HEXBUG Nano collection! It was a blast to put together, and my boys got lost in play as they built their 'own' levels and 'roads' for their little HEXBUG's. We have an entire community of HEXBUG's to play with, and they just couldn't get enough on Christmas Day! The HEXBUG Bridge Battle Habitat Set allows kids (and adults, too, as I quickly got lost in the fun of building, too!) to create the ultimate battleground for the HEXBUG Nano. This made my boys really, really happy.

Of course, the Glow in the Dark HEXBUG Nano Galileo Collection and the Glow in the Dark HEXBUG Nano Starter Set and Habitat Set are so neat, too! The Glow in the Dark HEXBUG Nano Starter Set is perfect for any first time HEXBUG Nano owner and it's also a perfect gift to give to a child celebrating his or her birthday. It's pretty much guaranteed that any child who receives this gift will be excited!

My boys and I were thrilled to review (and play, non-stop!) with the entire HEXBUG Nano world.

For more information, visit HEXBUG!

SENS TICKETS! The perfect stocking stuffer for YOU!

2011-12-20T19:30:00.000-08:00

The holidays are upon us, and to me, that means spending time with family and friends. There is always so much going on during December that it's important to spend the days leading up to Christmas Day relaxing with loved ones.

Since it is almost a guarantee that we're going to have a green Christmas, there won't be any snowman building in the front yard, or walks to the neighbourhood skating rink to see the kids playing on the ice.

However, I'd like to offer you the next best thing!

How about a family four pass to the see the Ottawa take on Florida on December 22nd right here at Scotiabank place? Yup, you can watch the action on the ice and feel festive at the same time! GO SENS GO!

Not only do I have four tickets for this Thursday night's game, I also have four tickets to give away for the Metro Sens Skills night taking place on December 28th at 1 p.m.!

That's right, TWO winners, winning four tickets each to watch the Sens take to the ice!

As you may or may not know, the NHL All-Star skills competition will be taking place right here in Ottawa in January, and the Sens Skills night is basically a preview of what's to come. The Sens Skills competition is going to be so much fun the whole family!

And if you're a huge Sens fan, don't forget to vote for your favourite player so they can represent at the game in January! You can vote up to 30 times on each platform! Visit www.nhl.com/vote

Wouldn't four tickets to the Sens Skills night (presented by Metro) be a great stocking stuffer for that special someone in your life?

If you want to buy more tickets for yourself or for your friends, they're on sale for only $7.50 and you can get them at capitaltickets.ca. Oh, and there is free parking, too!

To win, just leave me a comment below... and I'll randomly pick two winners! The first name I pick will receive the tickets to the game on the 22nd, and the second name I pick will receive the tickets to the Sens Skills event!

Good Luck!

Snowman Cake!

2011-12-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

I am not the best in the kitchen, this is a well-known fact. In fact, even baking sugar cookies can be quite the disaster, and that's not even when my children are helping me bake! I am, however, not as sucky when it comes to baking cake. My specialty? Carrot cake, with cream cheese icing. It's SO good and it's my go-to cake.

Over the holidays I wanted to impress my children and found this amazing cake that I knew my boys would simply adore—isn't this snowman cake the cutest thing you've ever seen? And you just know it's going to be super good to eat, too! I love the cake and I love coconut, and I think it looks so festive! The perfect dessert to bring to someone's house for a holiday party or gathering. A great way to impress your family members with your baking skills, too!

The best part? It's simply and easy to make! Yup, no sweating in the kitchen... even though it may look hard, it's really not. And for me to say that? Well, just take my word for it. Now I have another cake to add to my "things I can make that I don't suck at" list!

Now, if only it was Christmas ever day... then I'd have the perfect excuse to make this cake more than a couple of times a year!

De'Longhi Coffee Machine Giveaway just in time for Christmas!

2011-12-15T09:33:00.000-08:00

There is almost nothing I love as much as coffee. I can't survive, without coffee. To me, coffee is as important as water... maybe even more so?

Another great holiday gift idea to give to those people you love on your shopping list? A coffee maker. A really, really good coffee maker.

Well, you're in luck, and so close to Christmas too! I am giving away a front-drip coffee maker from De'Longhi—an amazing company whose products we always buy.

Wouldn't this be an awesome gift to give your mother-in-law? Hello, brownie points!

To enter just leave me a comment below telling me who the hardest person to shop for on your list is!

Good Luck!

I'll pick a winner randomly on December 16!

Empire Theatre Holiday Gift Card Bundle: Making Holiday Shopping Easier For You!

2011-12-14T11:34:00.000-08:00

With only a few days left before Christmas, I am starting to panic. I was calm, cool and collected up until a few days ago, thinking I had all the time in the world to finish Christmas shopping for everyone on my list. Suddenly, there are only 10 days left before the big day and well... I am not ready. Not. Even. Close.

I have been busy with work and my kids and balancing it all, and I still need gift ideas for those few people left on my list. (Hi, sister!) Last year I gave out some Empire Theatres Gift Cards and they were a huge hit. Really, how could you go wrong when giving someone a gift card to the movies? No matter how hard the people on your shopping list are to shop for, you cannot go wrong with a gift card for the movies!

Do you know what the best part is? It's a win-win situation for everyone. Because when you buy a $30 Empire Theatre Gift Card, you will receive $30 in Empire Theature coupons. These coupons are amazing! You'll receive two-for-one deals, great discounts on food and drinks, two dollars off any combo, $9.99 for an admission ticket, regular drink and small popcorn and so much more. Isn't that awesome? Total bonus!

My favourite part are the cute gift tins that are back this year, that can be used as a gift box. They're only a dollar plus tax, and net proceeds go to Kids Help Phone. (You can purchase these tins for other gifts, too, not just for the gift cards!)

Aren't you glad your holiday shopping got so much easier? Especially with only days left before Christmas? Well, happy shopping... and you're welcome!

I am participating in the Empire Theatre Gift Card Holiday Campaign by Mom Central Canada. I received compensation for my participation in this campaign. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Menu planning over the holidays with Chef Boyardee

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

With only a few days left before Christmas, it's okay to start freaking out. Today I looked at my calendar at work and realized that we are less than two weeks away from the festivities!

I set off on my lunch hour in a mad dash to stamp and mail out all my Christmas cards, so at least that's checked off my mile long to-do list. ,

Yes, the holiday season is without a doubt, a crazy, busy time for all of us. Especially us moms, who on top of our everyday busy schedules have Christmas to deal with too! There is so much to prepare for the holidays: child care arrangements when the kids are off school for two (long) weeks, Christmas shopping, gift wrapping, house decorating, party attending, and of course, menu planning. With so much going on, I'm looking for the easieast (and healthiest!) ways to feed my family.

I found some great recipes on the UrbanMoms website that I know my boys will love. The best part? They're easy to prepare and they're great tasting. Right now, if you check out the UrbanMoms site to get some menu planning ideas from Chef Boyardee, you have the chance to win a $200 President's Choice gift card and tons of yummy Chef Boyardee products. How awesome is that?

You can even find more recipes on Chef Boyardee's Facebook page! I'm all about getting as much help as possible during these next few days before the festvities begin!

Empire Theatres: Reel Babies!

2011-11-27T23:23:00.000-08:00

As a mom who has been on maternity leave twice, I had to come up with creative things to do on a daily basis to entertain my babies and myself. Museum visits, play dates, crafty afternoons, trips to the mall, afternoons at the park, mornings in the pool... the list goes on and on. Sometimes, though, I just wanted to enjoy a medium popcorn and diet coke in the movie theatre while my baby was napping comfortably in his stroller. However, I knew it was probably not appropriate to bring my baby to the movies in case he annoyed the other patrons.

Now? Empire Theatres have come up with the ultimate outing for new parents: Empire Reel Babies! Twice a month, you can see a new release movie in a baby-friendly environment. The lights are dim, the volume is lowered, and you can sit back and watch your movie without worrying about bothering anyone else.

Bonus? Each Reel Babies theatre is equipped with a change table, bottle warmer, play mat, exersaucer and baby swing, so you can take care of all your babies needs without having to even step out of the theatre!

Are you interested in checking out Empire Reel Babies? Well, now you can!

I'm giving away tickets for you (and your baby!) along with coupons for $3.00 off general admission to a Reel Babies event.

All you have to do to win? Leave me a comment, telling me what movie you're currently dying to see, and I'll pick a winner randomly on December 10th!

Good Luck!

Disclosure: I am participating in the Empire Reel Babies program by Mom Central Canada on behalf of Empire Theatres. I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Three Steps to WOW!

2011-11-27T20:59:00.001-08:00

It's almost Christmas! With only a few days left until December, we've been busy decorating the house, putting up the Christmas tree (with help from my two little helpers, my boys!) and getting a head start on Christmas shopping. (Don't be jealous, but I'm actually finished all the shopping for my children!)

Next on my to-do list? Holiday baking. I alread made one batch of sugar cookies from the new Betty Crocker cook book, and I was so impressed with how easy these cookies were to make - and okay, I was a little impressed with myself, too! I'm not the greater baker, so if I can actually follow a recipe through, I'm proud of myself. I also love how you can remove the page of the recipe you're working with from the book, and easily insert it back once you're done using it.

Anyway, Life Made Delicious is going to make holiday baking even more easy for me this year, with their Three Steps To Wow recipes! Who wouldn't love to receive these adorable, easy to make snowman cookies? Since they're easy to make, I plan on making as many as I can for co-workers, teachers, and friends.

Of course, holiday baking just wouldn't be the same without getting my children involved, too. Messy kitchens are so worth the fun we all have making new holiday traditions and memories. When my boys are older, they'll be able to say: "Remember those awesome cookies mom used to make?" And the best part? The recipes are so easy to follow, we'll be baking tons this holiday season!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Holiday festivities!

2011-11-12T20:13:00.000-08:00

I start getting excited for the holidays right after Halloween. Now that we're well into November, Christmas is right around the corner! And this gets me really, really excited. I've always loved the holidays, but more so now that I am a mom - seeing the joy in my children's faces on Christmas Day is something I will always cherish.

I love everything having to do with the holidays, from writing my shopping lists to decorating the house, and shopping until I can't shop anymore for everyone on my list - and I also love entertaining during this festive time. I'm no Martha Stewart in the kitchen, though, but I do love making things that everyone will love. As long as what I am making is simple, because I'm always so pressed for times, and I only do well with really simple recipes!

When I saw this Candy Cane Cake on the Life Made Delicious website, I knew it would be one cake I'd be bringing to my inlaws Christmas morning. A few times a year, I like to surprise them and show them that I can, indeed, make something on my own that actually tastes good! This cake? No exception, I'm sure. It is simple, looks great, and will be a big hit this holiday season!

Happy baking everyone!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Tag Along Toys and the Neighbourhood Toy Store Day!

2011-11-10T04:25:00.000-08:00

Tag Along Toys, one of the cities most fabulous toy stores, is celebrating their first National Neighbourhood Toy Store Day this Saturday, November 12th! (Tag Along Toys is part of NETS - Neightbourhood Toy Stores of Canada, along with 50 other stores across Canada who work together to provide quality, safe, durable products to customers.)
　
Not only can you shop till you drop, but you'll also be supporting your local Independent Toy Stores!

Also? Tag Along Toys will be having giveaways, contests, treasure hunts and more!

The kids will have a blast and they'll even get to meet Elmo and Dora! I know my three year old son will be so excited (and probably a little shy, too!) to meet Dora live and in person.

Tag Along Toys will also be accepting donations to the Kanata Food Bank.
　
For more info you can go to Nets Canada.

My Kinder Moments

2011-11-10T04:17:00.000-08:00

What do I love almost as much as my children? Chocolate! Well, okay, not quite, but chocolate—good quality chocolate—definitely makes the cut for things I most desire and love in this world, after, of course, my children.

Did you know that you can now celebrate the things you love with My Kinder Moments? Kinder Canada (as if they weren't awesome enough already!) has created a cool little tool through their Facebook page that helps you celebrate and frame the special moments in your life. And moms, I know there are plenty of special moments that need framing!

These frames are not only for celebrating milestone events but for everyday things, too. Like snapping that random awesome picture of your child on the school playground, bath time pictures (perfect for bribing in later years!) and the disasters your children make while they're 'playing'. Hey, why not cherish those moments, too? You can use My Kinder Moments Frames for... well, anything!

Head on over to the Kinder Canada Facebook page to register to create your Kinder Moments album. Here's a bonus: every time you frame a special moment, you'll be entered to win a prize every month—like a $500 digital camera to capture your special moments!

Disclosure: I’m part of the KINDER® Mom program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Helping children save money

2011-11-04T20:27:00.000-07:00

This post was underwritten by BMO Harris Bank, which offers a matching $25 on a new savings account opened for your child through their Helpful Steps for Parents program. Learn more at bmoharris.com/parents.

You probably know this already, but I have never had good money habits. I spend more than I make, and I'm terrible with saving money for a rainy day. Despite my bad money habits, as a mom of two little boys, I try to teach my children about fiscal responsibility.

Lucky for me, my six year old is a mini Alex P. Keaton.

He loves saving money, collects coins, and asked for a gold bar for his birthday last year. (Which he received, thanks to generous grandparents.) He has four piggy banks in his room: one for spending, one for saving, one sharing, and one for schooling. He loves saving up his money and when we give him money, he decides where to put it.

He's now saved up enough to buy his plane ticket for our annual winter vacation to south Florida! Although this thrills me to no end, I don't think I'm going to take his hard-earned money. He is on the right track with saving, and he's actually teaching me a thing or two! For his birthday last year, he received a little ATM machine for his room - it's amazing, it works, and it has helped encourage him to put away his money, too.

We love to teach our children abou the importance of saving. When we see our boys working hard to save, or when we see that they're keeping rather spending their money, we like to match the amount they have saved. Although I don't often lead by example when it comes to money and saving money, I do try very hard to teach my children how to save, and why it is important to save. It's great to see their enthusiasm when it comes to money - especially saving it!

I also love to see my children's enthusiasm when I take them to the bank to deposit their money. It makes them very proud, teaches them about being responsible, and makes me feel happy as a parent. Rather than my children thinking they're "entitled" to getting everything they want, just like that, I like knowng that they're using money they've saved to get things they want when we go shopping. If they want something, generally speaking, they'll pay for it themselves with their money - money they've saved.

I may not be the best when it comes to saving money myself, but I'm learning, slowly. My children teach me every day about the importance to saving for a rainy day, and for the future. It really is never too early to teach your children this important life lesson.

I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. To learn more about BMO Harris Bank, visit their website http://bmoharris.com/parents/.

Two tickets to the advanced screening of Breaking Dawn for YOU!

2011-11-01T08:37:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, I made fun of everyone who read and watched Twilight. I wouldn't give the movie, or the books, a second glance. I had better things to do with my time than swoon over a vampire. Seriously, I thought. Ew.

And then one night, as I was watching TV, I stumbled upon this movie. I couldn't look away, even after I realized it was Twilight.

Fast-forward a few hours. I was in Costco, purchasing the four books in the Twilight saga: Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn. For the next few days, I went into hiding. I went to work, but read the books during my breaks and lunch hour. I read during rush hour traffic. I read in the bathroom. I stayed up late into the night finishing book after book until a few days later, I was finished reading the entire saga. I loved all the books, and declared myself Team Edward forever. Of course I questioned my decion after Eclipse when I had a few Team Jacob, maybe? moments, and bought all the DVD's to watch at home, whenever the urge hit me.

I now get the obsession. Even though I'm a 35 year old mom. I also want to shake Bella and yell: "You're so lucky! Stop the sulking, b*tch!"

Anyway, last year, Boston Pizza invited me to attend the advanced screening of New Moon, and this year, I'm happily joining them again for the advanced screening of Breaking Dawn. (Squee!)

I also have two tickets to give away to one of you lucky Twi-hards, too! All you have to do is "Like" Boston Pizza on Facebook for your chance to win! Leave me a comment below telling me you did, and you're entered—simple as that! I will pick a winner on November 7th, randomly.

The advanced screening takes place on November 17th. So you'll be seeing the most anticipated movie of the year (it totally is, don't laugh) before your other friends! Bragging rights on Facebook? I think so!

Hey, your other friends still have a chance to win, too. All they have to do is go to Boston Pizza Orleans, spend $20, and receive a ballot to be entered to win. So maybe they'll be able to join you as well!

Breaking News: Coca-Cola turns white!

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

When I think of Coca-Cola commercials during the holidays, I always think of that big, white, adorable polar bear. Don't you? For decades, the big white bear has appeared in holidays ads with Coke. Well this year, Coca-Cola is teaming up with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to help Canada's beloved white polar bears.

This holiday season, white is the new red. That's right. Forget what you've heard about wearing white after labour day—this year, not only is it cool to be seen in white, it's also worthwhile. That's because Coca-Cola will be changing the colour of its classic red can for a great cause, in honour of the white polar bear.

The Arctic Home campaign helps raise awareness and funds to support the WWF and its efforts to protect the polar bear's Arctic habitat. Did you know that two-thirds of the world's polar bears live in Canada? This white bear is a very important part of our ecosystem and culture.

Coca-Cola will donate $2 million dollars to the WWF over the next five years, and through the Arctic Home campaign, they'll match consumer donations made by March 12, 2012, up to $1 million dollars! Isn't that something to drink to?

Just visit iCoke.ca to make your donation. It really is as simple as that. Funds go towards the WWF's conservation efforts to protect polar bear habitats, for their survivial today and in the future.

You can also use the hashtag #ArcticHome on Twitter to find out more!

"This campaign is about working together to save one of the most important places on Earth," says Gerald Butts, President and CEO of the WWF. "As sea ice continues to melt at alarming rates, polar bears and local communities alike are threatened. With Coca-Cola's support, we can expand our reach and impact to help chart a sustainable future for this critical Arctic ecosystem."

When you're iCoke.ca, you can explore, experience and learn all about the polar bear and its Arctic home, watch videos, track virrtual polar bear sightings, and make your donation.

Pirate fun

2011-10-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

Last year, my six year old wanted to have a pirate themed birthday party. I decided to go all out with his birthday cake and ordered a great treasure chest cake from our cake lady. It was a huge hit, and it tasted amazing, as well. We played a few games, ate a lot of great food, and even enjoyed an afternoon of swimming. It was a great day, and a great birthday.

I recently stumbled upon these amazing cupcakes, though, and I know they would have also been a huge hit at my son's pirate themed birthday party! Don't they look amazing? AND of course, they're easy to make. Not only that, but image the fun the children would have decorating these cupcakes? A great activity for kids to do at a party, no? Hopefully my little one will ask for a pirate themed party in the coming years so we can make these yummy cupcakes, too!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

A family four pass to see the OTTAWA SENATORS!

2011-10-19T05:32:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, we had the opportunity to take our children to their very first NHL game. It was all sorts of exciting, for me, and for the boys, who were completely blown away by the game, the skating rink, and all the excitement. We didn't last the entire game, but while we were there, we had a blast! My children were even given the chance to ride on the zamboni, during the game, but they said no. They were a bit too shy, but hopefully next time they'll experience that!

Since it is the 20th anniversary of The Ottawa Senators, celebrations of all sorts are taking place for ALL Sens fans, big and small!

It's Kids Opening Night on Saturday, October 22nd, at 7 p.m. at Scotiabank Place, and there will be so many fun things going on, including balloon artists, special mascots, and more!

The best part? I AM GIVING AWAY A FAMILY FOUR PACK to see the Sens this Saturday night!

4 tickets, 4 hot dogs, and 4 drinks, can be yours... all you have to do is tell me what colour the Sens' jerseys are!

I'll pick a winner by midnight on October 22nd!

Contest is open to anyone who is in or around Ottawa. Or, anywhere, really, as long as they can be at Scotiabank Place on Saturday at 7 p.m. to pick up their tickets! (The winner can pick up their tickets at Concierge Gate #2 before the game!)

Good Luck! And? GO SENS GO!

Cookies like grandma used to make

2011-10-09T20:33:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite parts of childhood was coming home from school, relaxing on the couch in front of the TV, and eating a snack. The best snacks were always cookies with milk. Don't you agree? I always loved it when my grandmother baked fresh cookies for us to enjoy after school, when it was our time to relax before dinner and after school activities. Things were always so busy, but always fun. Having a comfort food to enjoy was a really great way to unwind before we had to go-go-go again.

I happen to love Oatmeal Rasin cookies, even though normally, I wouldn't touch a rasin with a ten foot pole! Luckily for me, my children also love these cookies, and they are now a new favourite snack our house! Not only are they oh-so-good, but they're healthy, too. And they're a great way to get your children to eat raisins, too. After all, who can resist a cookie, right?

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Pink Network

2011-10-04T07:07:00.001-07:00

October is breast cancer awareness month, and last year, I had quite a scare. I couldn't have gotten through my experience of waiting for a mammagram and breast ultrasound without my family and best friends with me, comforting me and offering me support.

Since October is all about breast cancer awareness, I love seeing how companies are doing their part to raise awareness and support women and men who have this disease. Seeing all the pink in October is an awesome thing, don't you think? It means we're all united, and we're all rallying together against this terrible disease.

Even though I'm an iPhone lover, I appreciate that TELUS is donating money in a worthwhile way. In May 2010, TELUS announced that for every TELUS pink Blackberry Curve sold in October, $25 would go towards to the purchase of digital mammography machines.

TELUS created a social media campaign using Facebook to drive fundraising for the cause. The Go Pink Facebook application invited people to turn their profile pictures pink, which in return generated $200,000 towards the campaign and new, much needed, machines.

By choosing to buy your Pink Blackberry from TELUS, you've helped raise over $2.45 million nationally.

Your support enabled ten Go Pink charities to purchase much needed digital mammography machines. Breast cancer touches us all and this campaign reminds us that together, we can give where we live and make real improvements to health care in our local communities.

Since 2008, TELUS has given over $15 million for research, early detection and treatment of cancer in Canada. Isn't that something awesome?

Disclosure: By working with TELUS on this worthwhile campaign, I have a chance of winning a trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake. The person who receives the most RT's on Twitter using the hashtag #pinknetwork will win the trip.

Easy dinner solutions thanks to Life Made Delicious

2011-09-26T11:04:00.000-07:00

Now that fall is here, and our children are back in school (I know, you were as excited as I was, right?) I need easy dinner solutions that won't drive me crazy or have me looking for 50 different ingredients to prepare a meal my children will likely eat in under 10 minutes flat. (I've got some hungry little guys, you know!)

I love checking out all the easy dinner recipes at Life Made Delicious. There really is always something there I want to try, but the part I love the most? Knowing the recipes are simple, and knowing that when I make something from the site my children will EAT the food I've put in front of them!

Often I will back away from a recipe if it calls for too many indredients or if takes longer than an hour to make, and I have found that the recipes at Life Made Delicious are all pretty easy to make!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Easy pasta dishes your children will LOVE!

2011-08-29T08:54:00.000-07:00

As part of the Life Made Delicious blogger program with Mom Central Canada, I am always online looking for easy recipes I know my children will love. My children can sometimes be fussy about what they eat, so I make sure what I'm making for them is not only healthy, but something I know they won't complain about. That something is usually pasta.

A dish I love—and a dish that is packed with yumminess—is the Linguine with Vegetables and Cheese. There is nothing not to love about this dish, and it includes some healthy veggies, too! And cheese—lots of cheese makes everything better, especially if you're one of my children. They can't get enough of cheese!

Another dish I love making them is the Spinich Lasagna Casserole. It's really easy to make—even if you're making it for the first time, and you're like me—not so great in the kitchen! Since school is almost in session again (my oldest son starts grade one very soon!) I need to have simple ingredients in the house for easy to make dinner solutions.

This week, I'm going to try the Southwest Mac and Cheese—pasta and cheese together? Already a hit in my house!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Complete Skin Care

2011-08-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

As a shopaholic, I love shopping for cosmetics - both in stores and on-line. I love finding the perfect shade of lipstick, the best eye make-up remover, and face creams that smells as good as they work.

I recently discovered Complete Skin Care, which is basically the only website you need to go to in order to find all your favourite brands in one place - for fabulous prices!

With over 1,700 different products, Complete Skin Care offers discounts up to 30% off on skin care products such as Obagi, Skinceuticals, Kinerase, Dermalogica, La Roche Posay and more. Isn't that just fabulous?

Check out Complete Skin Care's facebook page, which makes shopping easy and fun! All you have to do is enter the product you are looking for, what you're looking for, and voila - your item appears! Shopping on facebook? Sign me up!

Complete Skin Care also offers combo packs that will give you fabulous looking skin!

New brands are added to the site all the time like: Fake Bake, Perricone MD, Peter Thomas Roth, Philosophy, Avene, GloMinerals, Go Smile, Decleor and Tweezerman - the best tweezers around!

Now the question is... what are you waiting for? Check out Complete Skin Care's facebook page and happy shopping!

Disclaimer: I was compensated for this post.

Happy Canada Day...

2011-06-30T09:16:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's July tomorrow. With the beginning of a new month, we find ourselves in the midst of summer already.

It's time to celebrate summer this long weekend, and enjoy Canada Day with our friends and family. Of course, no Canada Day celebration is complete without something tasty to eat, right? And why celebrate the occasion with something... truly Canadian?

Like... butter tarts!

These tasty treats can be made from the comfort of your own kitchen. All you need is some Pillsbury pie crust (see, right there, you're saving yourself a step!) some raisins, butter (duh!) brown sugar, golden corn syrup, vanilla and 1 egg.

Follow the recipe and you've got a tasty treat to share with your guests... make sure to save at least a couple for yourself, though!Look forward to seeing your posts before

Happy Canada Day, and Happy 4th of July to my American friends!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Disney Fruit Shapes and Cars 2 movie passes giveaway!

2011-06-27T08:30:00.000-07:00

Ka-chow, everybody! Are you children super excited yet? Cars 2 has finally hit the theatres! It's been a few years since we've last seen Lighting McQueen on the big screen, but now, we don't have to wait any longer.

And! Super exciting news—I have a special Cars 2 and Disney Fruit Shapes giveaway just for you and your little ones!

So, what do you win? You'll recieve some super yummy Disney Fruit Shapes, and a $50 Visa Cash Card towads a Family Movie Pass to see Cars 2 in theatres.

All you have to do to win? Leave me a comment below telling me who your (or your child's) favourite Cars character is.

I'll randomly pick a winner on July 26.

Contests open to Canadians residents only. Readers may enter the contest on multiple blogs but are only eligible to win one Cars 2 prize as part of the contest.

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Connector program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Cold Stone Creamery ice cream cake!

2011-06-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

Recently I found out that Cold Stone Creamery is coming to my very own city! This is exciting news and as everyone LOVES ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery... right?

I was approached to try the new Peanut Butter Playground ice cream cake, just in time for Father's Day. Sadly, there is no Tim Hortons with a Cold Stome Creamery in it just yet, so instead, I'll have to wait to try this amazing treat.

The Peanut Butter Playground ice cream cake is available in 6' and 8' sizes, and is made up of layers of Devil's Food cake, smooth chocolate ice cream, chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chocolate ganache, peanut butter and chocolate shavings—a treat no dad could resist!

Since Father's Day is a great time to spend the day kicking back and relaxing with the entire family, what better way to do it than with this yummy ice cream cake? I know if I could get my hands on it, it's what my husband would be enjoying this Sunday, June 19th!

For more information on Cold Stone Creamery locations in Canada, click here.

Disclaimer: I was compensated for this post.

You've Got Mail! (Part Two!)

2011-06-09T12:57:00.000-07:00

The first thing I check every morning when I wake up is Twitter. After that, the first thing I do is check my email!

I love receiving emails from friends, or good news emails from work or blogging related projects. I love it when emails put a smile on the face, and at least a few times a day, they do. Emails from best friends, emails from long-lost friends, and emails from loved ones are all so special to receive.

My favourite emails are the once I get from my mom when she babysits my children while I am at work. They're my most favourite, and will be saved forever:

Dimitry drank all his milk, and fell asleep at 1. Christos rested for 1/2 hour, drank his milk, went on the computer, had some apple and apple juice and just went to Home Depot with dad. The kids are great. We'll eat fish and mashed potatoes tonight.
See you soon!!!!!
_______________________

Christos was painting and we're both covered in paint now. Dimitry fell asleep at 2:15 in his crib - I just left him there and only went in a couple of times and he fell asleep! He had fun at playgroup. Christos had a great day and is eating McDonald's now.
See you soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
__________________________

Christos was outside shovelling for over 1/2 hour, jumping around in the snow. He had hot chocolate and macaroni and kima. He's great. Don't call for a while, Dimitry is sleeping.
See you soon!!!
____________________

Just back from Greek playgroup. Baby kept going up and down... his nose is stuffy, I think he is getting a new cold.
Christos had to poo at school but it was quick.
I am exhausted....
See you soon!
____________________

Put the humidifer on for Christos.
Get the address for Florida.
Thank S. for gift for Dimitry.
Look for new housekeeper for your house - this is important!
See you soon!!!!!!
___________________________

The boys are a handful! Especially Dimitry... he wears everyone out! Christos is riding his bicycle inside. Dimitry sleeping since 1:15. It is now 2:00. See you soon.
____________________________

Dimitry hit one cheek on the wall at playgroup and so one cheek is red. He had a blast at my moms house for almost 2 hours, running, playing, eating.
Christos is great, but this morning, after you left for work, he got upset because Dimitry took his gems and crystals and threw one on the floor, then Dimitry hit Christos and Christos hit him back and then Christos took off his pants and underwear and I finally got them dressed again but Christos was late for school. It was tough....
See you soon!!!!
__________________________

Emails about my children—and especially emails about my children that make me laugh hard at work—are always emails I look forward to receiving!

(This is part two in a Yahoo! Mail sponsored post about staying connected. The first email blog post can be found here.)

Thank you to Yahoo! Mail for sponsoring this post about staying connected. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

Beddington's: Ottawa finest bedding store!

2011-05-31T10:22:00.001-07:00

A few months ago, after my apperance on A Morning talking about blogging, I was contacted by a local bedding company, Beddington's.

Beddington's is one of Ottawa finest bedding stores and every location in Canada sells amazing bedding sets, duvet covers, bed sheets, and so much more. Beddington's has a few stores in Ottawa, and in Toronto, as well. A new location is opening up in Kingston, too. My family is mostly familiar with the south end location, and my family has been shopping there for years!

I was given this amazing 100% silk duvet for a review, and it's so amazing, some days I don't even want to get out of bed! Beddington's has TONS of amazing duvet covers for you to choose from—there really is something here for everyone, no matter what your taste. All I know is, I had the hardest time deciding on which duvet cover to get for myself!

Do yourself a favour—if you're in the market for new bed sheets, a new duvet cover, or a brand-new duvet? Check out Beddington's. You have my word that you will find exactly what you're looking for!

$50 for YOU!

2011-05-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

Now that the nicer weather has finally arrived (let's not talk about all the rain we've been having, okay?) it's time to do some spring cleaning—in your closet!

That's right. You need to put aside a few hours to organize your clothes, and bring out all those pretty summer dresses again. Also, make some room, because you're going shopping!

I'm giving away a $50 Mark's Gift Certificate, just for YOU! Last year, Mark's (formerly Mark's Work Warehouse) smartened up many of its stores and introduced a refreshed brand with new clothes and shoes in styles everyone could fall in love with. (Even me!)

I was invited (along with other members of the media and bloggers) to Mark's last year and I was treated to a Marks-over—make-up and hair people were on hand to pamper us and we got to pick out a brand new outfit to wear for a professional photo shoot.

I had a blast, and was completely surprised that I actually loved my outfit—skinny jeans, sparkly top, sweater, and awesome boots. I even got to keep the entire outfit!

Mark's is also having an awesome reStyle contest righ tnow, too, and you can win $5,000 in prizes—check it out!

Now it's time for you to discover Mark's! If you want to go shopping at Mark's, just leave me a comment below!

Bonus entry: Like Mark's on facebook!

Contest open to Canadians only.

Good Luck, everyone. I'll pick a winner randomly on May 25th!

Easy recipes for YOU!

2011-05-10T20:37:00.000-07:00

As a Life Made Delicious Connector, I have access to dozens of amazing and easy recipes all the time.

There really is no excuse for why I'm not spending more time in the kitchen! Now that summer is just around the corner, I'm looking forward to trying out a few new things this weekend.

Things that are easy enough for even ME to make!

Like this super yummy fruit trifle - a perfect desert for the entire family, and really, how could I do this wrong, right?

Another recipe I'm going to try? The Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad.

My boys love eating salad, and my oldest son LOVES caesar salads! I'm going to get him to help out in the kitchen, too.

Another easy recipe I'm dying to try? The Barbecued Pork Tenderloin... doesn't this just look so yummy?

I'm constantly amazed by all the great new recipes I find on Life Made Delicious. If you're looking for a great website to find tons of awesome recipes, now you know where to go!

You're welcome!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Iron Kids giveaway!

2011-04-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

My kids eat well. They are never hungry, and they know their way around the kitchen better than I do. I do sometimes fear that they are not consuming as many fruits and vegetables as they should each day, so I am comforted in knowing that they love taking their Iron Kids Gummies vitamins.

I first tried Iron Kids vitamins at BlissDom Canada last fall, and I actually ate a handful at a time. They're THAT good. They taste even better than Gummy Bears! Not only do I love them, my children go crazy for these vitamins! When we run out, they get sad. So we rush out to buy more. It's hard keeping the bottle away from them, and they usually take two a day.

This makes me feel great, because I know how healthy they are for their little bodies. And I can feel a little less guilty about what they ate that day.

I'm so excited to announce that I have an awesome Iron Kids Gummies giveaway happening right now!

The prize is a 1 bottle each of Omega, Multi, Vitamin D and Calcium Gummies (for a winner in Canada!) and 2 bottles of Multi and 2 bottles of Omega Vitamin Gummies (for a winner in the USA!)

These vitamins are all natural, and contain no artificial sweeteners, flavors or colors. They're Health Canada approved, and made in Canada.

To win: Leave me a comment below telling me that you liked Iron Kids on Facebook!

Bonus entry: Sign up for the Iron Kids eNewsletter here!

Bonus entry number two: Tweet about this giveaway (I'm entering to win a prize pack of Iron Kids Gummies from @MrsLoulou and @KidsGummyMum!)

Good Luck everyone! I'll pick two winners randomly (one Canadian, one American) on Friday April 29th.

Easter Rice Krispies Giveaway!

2011-04-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been spending more and more time in the kitchen, trying to improve my cooking and baking skills. I'm always up for a challenge, and I love easy recipes.

Making Rice Krispies Squares with my children makes me feel good about myself becaues there is almost no way I can screw it up, and the best part is, my children LOVE these treats!

Well, since Easter is upon us, I thought it would be a great time to have a fun Easter Rice Krispies giveaway! How would you like to win a super fun Gift Basket from Rice Krispies, valued at $100?

The basket includes:

- A copy of Rice Krispies Chocolate Bunnies Recipe
- A full size box of Rice Krispies Original Cereal
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- A bag of marshmallows
- Royal Icing and Food Colouring
- Baking Pan
- Spatula
- Cookie Cutters
- Decorate Candy
- Seasonal Serving Dish

Just leave a comment below letting me know what you love baking with your kids, and you'll be entered to win this gift basket. I'll pick a winner randomly on Thursday, April 21st! (Sorry, open to Canadian residents only!)

Happy Easter, and happy eating!

Green Works Giveaway!

2011-04-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

As a mom, I try to keep my children safe and healthy. Of course, the products we use everyday in our home can affect our overall health, so I am more careful about what I use now.

A while back, I discovered Green Works all-natural cleaning products for the home, and I've been using these products ever since!

Greek Works products contain no harsh chemical fumes or residue, and are plant and mineral based, which help you create a clean, healthy home.

The smell is fresh and light and reminds me of a summer day.

I was given some products from Green Works recently, and included in my package were new products I was not yet using—Green Works dishwashing liquid soap and their new laundry detergent. I'm pleased to report I've been really happy with the results!

Green Works is also giving away three packages to three of my lucky readers, too!

To enter to win a fabulous package of Green Works products, just leave me a comment telling me what your green cleaning tips are!

For more information on and coupons for Green Works, visit their website.

Contest is open to Canadian residents only. I'll pick a winner randomly on April 22!

Good Luck!

Ottawa Fashion Week!

2011-03-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've been blogging for over four years, writing about everything from parenting to entertainment, so you must have figured out a few things about me by now.

Like the fact that I love my children more than anything in the world.

And the fact that I love summer and the ocean and swimming.

And the fact that I have am a huge shopaholic and get a high from trying on new dresses and buying new designer handbags and sunglasses.

Did I mention shopping and fashion and clothes and designer purses and sunglasses and shoes and department stores? Yes, I'm obsessed with everything fashion related.

And although Ottawa is not really comparable to New York City, we have a fashion week, too!

I'm been invited to attend and cover Ottawa Fashion Week, and I'm very excited to be taking part in all the glamour and fun.

Guess what? I have two day passs (for March 19th) to give away to two of my lucky readers! AND an extra pass to the invitation-only media launch party taking place on Thursday night!

I'm looking forward to attending the OFW launch party, which will be taking place in the newly renovated lounge, Lobby. The fashionable and sophisticated space will provide the fabulous backdrop to the ultimate fête of fashion here in Ottawa, with Cirque du Soleil like performers, champagne waterfalls, and hors d'oeuvres. Whether at the launch party, or at the actual event taking place at the National Gallery of Canada, you'll be rubbing elbows with foreign delegates, politicians, and socialites.

Ottawa Fashion Week is the most fashionable event in the city and you definitely don't want to miss out on the excitement.

Just leave me a comment below telling me where you love to shop and I will pick three names randomly tomorrow!

Mars Needs Moms Movie Giveaway!

2011-03-01T20:45:00.000-08:00

Moms... can't live with them, can't live without them.

Turns out moms are not only much loved and needed here on earth, but on... Mars as well!

Mars Needs Mars is Disney's latest Digital 3D and IMAX 3D movie, produced by the same folks who brought us Disneys' A Christmas Carol and The Polar Express. Mars Needs Moms will take the entire family on a wild adventure through Mars!

Nine year old Milo finds out just how much he needs his mom when she's taken by Martians who want her 'mom-ness' for their own unruly children. (Can I borrow her, too?) He goes on a wild journey ride on a spaceship in his quest to save his mom... on Mars!

I am giving away a family four pass to Mars Needs Moms to one of my lucky readers!

The Mars Needs Moms premier takes place this Saturday March 5th at 10 am at SilverCity Gloucester!

If you're in the Ottawa area, just leave me a comment for a chance to win the family four pass.

Good Luck - I'll pick a winner randomly on Thursday, March 3rd!

M&M's Spokescandies Discover Canada!

2011-02-17T10:00:00.000-08:00

“This is my first big trip across Canada. I’m excited, but anxious—what if I forgot to pack something important? And I hear that Canadians REALLY love their M&M’s, so maybe preparing for the cold should be the least of my worries! *Gulp*”

Orange, M&M’s Spokescandy

Imagine my surprise when I found out that the M&M's Spokescandies were coming to Canada! They're going to be on my own home turf! It's time to roll out the red carpet for our tasty friends, don't you think?

The famous M&M's Spokescandies will be visiting all the cool places in Canada, from famous landmarks to hidden gems off the beaten path. Of course, what's a visit to this fine country without checking out a hockey game, right? Maybe they'll even enjoy some time on the world's longest skating rink, too!

Our M&M's Spokescandies need YOUR help, though!

They want to discover the very BEST of Canada, and you can help by telling them where to go, simply by tweeting your recommendations to @MMSCanada and using the hashtag #CanadasBest.

You can also leave your suggestions on their facebook page!

Of course, I also have a great M&M's package up for grabs for you!

One of you lucky chocolate lovers will win $70 worth of M&M's—in a variety of sizes and delicious flavours!

You'll also receive some rare M&M's swag and the hiliarous book by the Ferguson brothers called How To Be A Canadian. (Even If You Already Are One).

All you have to do to win this yummy package?

Leave me a comment below telling me that you're following @MMSCanada on Twitter.

Bonus entry: "Like" the MMS Canada Facebook page!

Good Luck! Let's show these M&M's a good time, eh?

Contest open to Canadian residents only. I'll pick a winner randomly on March 1st.

Disclaimer: I was compensated in M&M's. Oh yes I was!

Playtex Giveaway!

2011-02-15T09:16:00.000-08:00

Are you still looking for the perfect sippy cup for your child? Then I have a giveaway just for you!

I remember the days when my children started to drink from a sippy cup, and how hard a task it was to find just the right kind of cup for them—one that was spill-proof, looked good, and was easy for my little children to drink from.

Well, Playtex has come out with the new Infant Lil'Gripper cup—it's perfect!

It's the first Playtex trainer cup that combines a squeezable body with a straw and it's spill-proof and leak-proof guaranteed! The straw cup is contoured so your child can hold tight and control the sipping. The cup also has a squeezable body that helps your child learn how to use a straw. These news cups are designed for babies as young as four months old, too.

The Playtex Lil’ Gripper cup is available in purple, green, blue and pink and the Twist 'n Click technology is spill-proof, leak-proof and break-proof. The cups are also dishwasher safe, and BPA and Phthalate free.

You Playtex package contains:

Playtex First Sipster Trainer Cup
Playtex Drop-Ins Original Nurser
Playtex Ortho-Pro pacifier
Playtex Ortho-Pro pacifier with sterilizing cover
Playtex Binky Silicone pacifier

Just leave me a comment below and you'll be entered to win this fabulous package! Good Luck!

I'll pick a winner randomly on February 28th, 2011.

Doritos: The End is Coming!

2011-02-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

Updated: Thanks for entering, everyone! The lucky winner? Number 17! Karen, please email me your address and I'll have your package shipped to you right away! Enjoy!

What's your favourite snack food? For me, hands down, it's Doritos. Of course, classic Nacho cheese flavour is my number one choice, followed by Zesty Doritos—yummy!
Of course, Doritos is always coming out with new and creative flavours.

Did you know that Doritos just launched a new Canadian campaign? It's totally innovative and like nothing they've ever done before! The new campaign just launched during the Super Bowl.

Basically, Doritos has come out with two new awesome flavours—Onion Rings and Ketchup and Buffalo Wings and Ranch—and you, the consumer, gets to decide which one gets to live!

Two flavours. And only one survivor. One flavour must be destroyed forever!

How does this contest work?

You have to write the last 20 seconds of this commercial. For full contest details, check out this link!

If your ending is chosen, you will win—BIG. Not only will Doritos shoot your ending, they'll give you $25,000 and 1% of future sales from the flavour remaining on store shelves.

And don't worry if your ending doesn't get chosen—you can still win big, right here!

Doritos Canada is giving away a $150 Doritos prize package to one of my lucky readers!

All you have to do to win?

Leave me a comment below telling me what your favourite Doritos flavour is!

Bonus entries:

Follow me on Twitter!

Become a follower of Loulou's Views and Loulou's Reviews!

Follow Doritos Canada on Facebook!

Leave me a separate comment for each bonus entry.

That's all!

Contest ends Saturday, February 12th and is only open to Canadians.

Good luck and happy snacking!

May the best flavour win!

Cheerios $50 Prize Pack - just for you!

2011-01-18T20:01:00.000-08:00

Do you remember the days when your little one ate Cheerios like there was no tomorrow? Perhaps you have a baby who is currently Cheerios obsessed! When my two boys were young, they loved eating Cheerios as a snack, and I would put a whole bunch of Cheerios on their high chair tray and they'd eat them all up while I finished my housework. A healthy snack while I got to finish my work, a perfection combination! Now, of course, they enjoy eating Cheerios with milk for breakfast, as do I.

Before the days of Cheerios, and before Twitter, I would spend countless hours on Baby Center. I fell in love with this website the day I found out I was pregnant, and have used it as a resource ever since.

I used to read weekly updates about my pregnancy, and continued to read updates for the first year after my children were born. Baby Center always has the answers I'm looking for with regards to anything baby or child related, including information about feeding your child, developmental milestones, and fun activities for children to partake in. Baby Center is a trusted resource for me, and for new moms everywhere.

Did you know that there is a brand-new section on Baby Center?

Mom Central is excited to announce a new section on Baby Center brought to you by Cheerios!

It is called The Cheerios First Foods section and features expert information on how and when to introduce certain foods, tips for picky eaters, (haven't we all had to deal with picky eaters?) answers to common 'first foods' questions and more. The section also features First Foods tools, like menu plans, that can help make life easier for busy moms.

That's not all! How would you like to win a Cheerios prize pack valued at $50?

Just leave a comment telling me about what you like best about the Cheerios First Food section.

Your prize pack includes a Cheerios on-the-go tot container, a Cheerios playbook, a box of Cheerios, a bowl and utensil set and a $30 cash card.

Contest ends on February 14th!

Disclosure: I participated in the Cheerios First Foods program by Mom Central on behalf of General Mills. I received a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Empire Theatre Coupons!

2010-12-17T12:41:00.000-08:00

I love going to the movies. Before I became a mom, my husband and I would go to the movies once a week. Since becoming a busy mom of two, I don't go to the movies as often as I used to, but when I do get the chance, I love every second—especially the popcorn!

With one week left until Christmas, I am pretty much finished my holiday shopping. The easiest people to shop for are my children, because I know what they love and what they want. I have the most fun selecting their 'big ticket' items that Santa will bring them, and I have fun shopping for their stocking stuffers and other gifts, too.

The hardest person to shop for? My husband! He always buys himself whatever he wants, leaving me with no good ideas! This year, I am thinking of sticking a gift certificate to Empire Theatres in his stocking, so that we can enjoy a night out.

Did you know that this year, when you purchase $30 in Empire Theatres' Gift Cards, you'll receive $30 in Empire Theatres Coupons? Inside the booklet, you'll find 2 for 1 deals, and discounts on popcorn and so much more. A great stocking stuffer idea! This awesome booklet is like the gift that keeps on giving—the coupons are valid in 2011, and each coupon is valid for a one month period.

You can pick up your coupons either at the theatres or online.

Offer expires December 24th, and only good while quantities last, so hurry to get your booklet of goodies soon!

Disclosure: I am participating in the Empire 'Give and Get' program by Mom Central on behalf of Empire Theatres. I received an Empire gift card and coupon bundle as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

The perfect present!

2010-12-06T11:59:00.001-08:00

Can you believe Christmas is almost here? It's only three weeks away! Our shopping days are limited. And you know what the scary part is? I have only managed to buy a couple of presents so far—I'm so behind!

If you're still looking for a cool idea on what to buy that 'hard to shop for person' on your list, how about getting them awesome leather messanger bags from CSN Stores? So many to choose from, and these bags would also make a great diaper bag for someone, too!

CSN Stores has offered to give me this amazing play kitchen to review—my amost three year old son is going to LOVE it!

I can't wait to see the expression on his face when he sees what Santa got him on Christmas morning! I'm sure it will provide countless hours of entertainment for him and his older brother.

Stay tuned for my review on this fabulous play kitchen!

Tanged: a movie review

2010-11-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

I have loved Disney animated movies ever since I was a little girl. Bambi, Cinderella, Finding Nemo, Aladdin and The Lion King are some of my favourite Disney classics. Last weekend I was invited to the premier of Disney's new film, Tangled, and I fell in love! Tangled has definitely been added to my list of 'favourite' Disney films!

I took my five year old son and his three cousins to see Tangled in 3D and we were all captivated the entire movie. My son absolutely loved the movie—it's great for the entire family.

Of course, like with most Disney films, I cried in the first 10 minutes, and again, like with most Disney films, I was laughing for pretty much the rest of the movie.

Tangled is about Rapunzel (voiced by Mandy Moore) who has lived her entire life inside a tower, kept there by her controlling 'mother', Mother Gothel, who in fact is evil—she stole Rapunzel from her parents when she was just a baby (sob!) because her golden hair contained the magical power to keep Mother Gothel young and attractive. Mother Gothel is a great villain—you can't help but dislike her and her manipulative ways! She's also... likeable, too, in a strange way.

Of course, Flynn Rider (voiced by Zachary Levi) enters the picture and the Tangled story begins! Confident and handsome Flynn has wit, charm, and good looks—and he knows it. He's also a thief who gets held hostage by Rapunzel, and well... you'll just have to see the movie to find out what happens next.

Tangled made me cry and laugh and I recommend it to all my friends—young or old! It's one of those awesome movies that will have you leaving the theatre with a smile.

Aquafresh Advanced Futures contest!

2010-11-25T08:41:00.000-08:00

What do you wish for your children?

Every day, I think about my children and their future. I think about the things that they'll do, the places they'll go, and what they'll become.

I watch my children developing and I wonder what they'll be when they grow up. My children have such distinct personalities, and I know they'll both do great things in life.

No matter what, I will support them, and I'll be the proudest mom at every graduation ceremony and at every event, whether it is a soccer game or spelling bee.

I wish for nothing but the best for my children; for health, happiness and success, and for them to find their passion and to make their dreams a reality.

Of course, saving money for their future is something that was started the day they were born. I want to make sure there is enough money saved up for their education, future vacations, and to help them get started out when they want to buy a house (next to mine, of course!) when they're older.

Aquafresh Advanced Futures has a contest going on right now where all you have to do is share your wish for a chance to win a $10,000 RESP courtesy of the new Aquafresh Advanced—how amazing is that?

Contest closes on November 30th, so go enter now! After you enter, you can read other people's wishes for their chidren—these wishes will surely bring a smile to your face.

Since we're also on the topic of toothpaste (thanks, Aquafresh!) here are some helpful tips on getting your children brushing twice a day:

Make it a habit! Children should get into a routine, brushing their teeth in the morning and before bedtime, for at least two minutes. Remember that a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is enough for a child under the age of six.

What are your tips for getting your children to brush their teeth? Leave me a comment below and you'll be entered to win a Philips Sonicare for Kids Toothbrush valued at $70 and Aquafresh Advanced toothpaste!

I'll pick a winner randomly on November 30th.

Disclosure:I am participating in the Aquafresh Advanced Futures program by Mom Central on behalf of GSK. I received a sample of Aquafresh Advanced and a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Where to go for your holiday shopping!

2010-11-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again—time to start your holiday shopping because Christmas is right around the corner! If you're like me and and are pressed for time and don't want to spend hours in a crowded mall in December, CSN Stores is the place to go to for all your on-line shopping needs.

CSN Stores has over 200 online stores where you can literally find everything from stylish handbags to modern bar furntiure and even great cookware.

I also love the home office furniture they have—so many things to choose from for the home!

CSN Stores also carries everything you need for your baby and children—furniture, educational toys, diaper bags, strollers and so much more.

It can really be your one-stop shop for everything you need to buy this holiday season!

Happy shopping!

Lilac Lingerie: lingerie giveaway!

2010-11-10T05:52:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked to MC the Grand Opening of a new lingerie store in Westboro called Lilac Lingerie.

I met one of the owners at a cosmetics gala I was co-hosting at The Bay, and I was very flattered when I was asked to be a part of Lilac Lingerie's opening night. Westboro is one of the coolest places in Ottawa—very hip and urban—with many fine specialty stores and restaurants. Lilac Lingerie is a perfect addition to Richmond Road.

The Grand Opening was a huge success—with giveaways going on throughout the night, champagne and signature martini's flowing freely, cupcakes from The Flour Shoppe, and relaxing hand massages from Renu Spa—it was a great night.

Lilac Lingerie is a beautiful and intimate lingerie store where the owners pay attention to detail, carry the finest designer lingerie, and help you find exactly what you're looking for. They also carry Cake Lingerie—a maternity and nursing line from Australia.

Cake lingerie and Lilac Lingerie are offering one of my lucky readers a set from Cake's Let's Them Eat Cake line, worth $80.

If you'd like to get your hands on some fancy maternity lingerie, just leave me a comment below.

For an bonus entry, becoming a follower of Loulou's Reviews.

Good Luck! I'll pick a winner randomly on November 22nd.

Tangled: Family four pass giveaway!

2010-11-09T08:18:00.000-08:00

Are you children buzzing with excitement about the new Disney movie Tangled? I can tell you one thing—I sure am! I love Disney movies, and this one looks fantastic! I wonder, though—will I be crying at some point during this movie? I've yet to see a Disney film that didn't make me cry!

Here's what Tangled is all about:

When the kingdom’s most wanted—and most charming—bandit Flynn Rider (voice of Zachary Levi) is taken hostage by Rapunzel (voice of Mandy Moore), a feisty teen with 70 feet of golden hair who’s looking for her ticket out of the tower where she’s been locked away for years, the unlikely duo sets off on a hilarious, hair-raising escapade filled with adventure, heart, humor and hair—lots of hair.

If you're dying to see Tangled, you're in lucky, because I'm giving away a family four pass!
If you and your family are free at 10 o'clock a.m. on November 20th, then you should enter this giveaway! The movie will be taking place at Silver City Gloucester.

Just leave me a comment below telling me what Disney movie is your favourite!

I will pick a winner randomly on November 18th.

Good Luck!

Mini Mioche: Giveaway!

2010-11-04T09:24:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, it's hard to find really nice clothes for children—sure, I shop at the usual Gap Kids, Gymboree, and Children's Place for the most part, with some Lacoste, Burberry and Polo throw in there as well, but somtimes, I want to find items that are more unique and stylish. That's why I was so excited to start working with Mini Mioche last summer. Mini Mioche is a wonderful Canadian children's clothing company that makes fabulous and stylish clothes for girls and boys.

As a Mini Mioche Ambassador, my little one was lucky to have some clothes sent to him last summer and again this fall. Since I'm really picky when it comes to the quality of clothes I put on my children, I was thrilled that I was asked to work with Mini Mioche. Their fall line up is amazing!

Mini Mioche has the usual basics and fashion styles, the absolute softest organic cotton, great fitting products, and a variety of solid colors—which is great when you're the mom of two boys!

Each piece is designed and made in Toronto, and the clothes are made from 100% organic cotton. Mini Mioche is sold in fine baby and children's boutiques in Canada, the United States and online.

My 2 year old received the softest grey sweater and brown long-sleeved shirt from the fall line, and these two tops have been my 'go to' items when getting him dressed in the morning. He loves the 'soft', too.

I am so excited to say that Mini Mioche is giving away an item from their fall line to you! All you have to do is head over to Mini Mioche and pick out your favourite piece.

Leave me a comment below about why you love the piece you chose. I will randomly pick a winner on November 30th!

BONUS! If you feel like doing some online shopping, you can use this discount code: MCFALL, for a 20% discount on online orders! But hurry—get your Christmas shopping done now, because that discount is only valid until November 30th!

Disclosure: I am participating in a Mini Mioche ambassador program by Mom Central on behalf Mini Mioche. I received an outfit for my child to try as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Cheerios Milestones

2010-11-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

Children grow up way too quickly. Every milestone my children reached was very bittersweet for me.

I remember vividly the day each one of my children started walking across the room. Now that I think back to those early baby days, I miss them terribly! From first smiles to first words, milestones are things to celebrate—while shedding a few tears, too. The pictures of my children sitting in their high chairs with Cheerios scattered about the tray table will always be priceless to me. Cheerios were a huge 'snack' food in our house. Easy for our babies to eat on their own, safe, and healthy. Cheerios are a staple breakfast food in my house, too—I'm a big fan of cereal in the morning!

Cheerios is celebrating your special milestones and rewarding you, too!

All you have to do is go here and upload a favourite picture to be entered for a chance to be one of 20 finalists to appear on a special edition Cheerios box and win Cheerios for a year!

PLUS one lucky grand prize winner will walk away with $10,000 towards an RESP fror TD Canada Trust! Contest ends on December 15th, 2010.

BONUS! Leave me a comment below sharing a story about one of your children's milestones for the chance to win a Cheerios playbook—perfect for learning and fun! I'll randomly pick a winner by November 8th and have your Cheerios book mailed out to you!

Disclosure: I am participating in the Cheerios Milestones program by Mom Central on behalf of General Mills. I received a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

New Moon Kitchen COOKIES: Yummy Giveaway!

2010-10-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

At BlogHer 2010 in New York City, I received a ton of fabulous swag. So much so, that the night before I had to leave, I stayed up until 4 a.m. trying to pack everything back in my suitcase!

One of the yummmiest items I received were some New Moon Kitchen cookies. I was extremely happy when I was contacted by this company and asked to do a review and giveaway of their cookies.

New Moon Kitchen cookies are available in various stores throughout the United States, and are now being sold at Farm Boy in Ottawa.

Not only are these some of the best cookies I've ever had—they are also healthy! And safe for your children to bring to school! The cookies are allergy-friendly, made from 100% organic spelt flour, and are kosher, nut, dairy and preservative free.

When I first read that, I wasn't sure how yummy they would be. Let me tell you, after devouring the entire box of Oatmeal cookies, they are GREAT. My children loved them, too. In fact, I had to hide the boxes from them. I know, how awful of me!

Would you like to win some New Moon Kitchen cookies? Of course you do! Just leave me a comment below and I'll pick a winner randomly on November 1st. Ne Moon Kitchen will then send you a package of fresh, ready-to-devour cookies! We should all be off our sugar-high from Halloween by then, right?

New Moon Kitchen is an all-natural gourmet bakery that has been dedicated to making delicious and healthy baked goods since 1997. They carry eight varieties of cookies along with cakes, breads and their own brand of granola. Products can be found at fine food and health food stores across Ontario, British Columbia and Quebec, with plans of expansion across North America. I received a variety of cookies to review as part of my review and giveaway.

Cow and the Moon stationary giveaway!

2010-10-13T18:23:00.000-07:00

You may not know this about me (or, maybe you do, since I tend to say a lot online!) but I LOVE stationary. I love paper and I love cards. I love receiving cards in the mail, and I especially love mailing out cards to people on their birthdays and for Christmas.

My friend Kelly has an awesome company called Cow and the Moon, and she makes super cute cards that I just cannot get enough of, including some very original invitation and birthday cards.

Seriously, look:

So cute, right? Kelly was so nice, she gave me an assortment of cards for myself, including the bird on a tree cards, the awesome cards, and the bubble thank you cards. My personal favourites are the itty bitties cards - the birch tree, the awesome itty bitties and my absolute favourite - the lovin' itty bitties.

Guess how awesome Kelly is? She's generously giving away an entire set to one of my lucky readers, too! (Thank you!)

And now all you have to do to win the set? Leave me a comment below! Do you love stationary as much as I do?

I'll randomly pick a winner on October 18th. Contest is open to US and Canadian residents!

Good Luck!

Children's Play Kitchen review from CSN Stores!

2010-10-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

I have worked with CSN Stores several times before, and when they contacted me and asked me to do another review of one of their amazing products, I quickly said yes.

CSN Stores have literally thousands of amazing items for the house—everything from kitchen gadgets, to bar stools, to children's furniture and toys. CSN Stores include over 200 online stores where you can find literally anything you're looking for. Like handbags. And gorgeous furniture. And lamps.

I'm excited that I've been given the chance to review this amazing play kitchen:

My 2 and a half year old will love this! I think it will make a great Christmas gift from Santa, don't you?

SECRETARIAT: Family 4 pass giveaway!

2010-10-04T12:08:00.000-07:00

When I was recently contacted by Walt Disney Studios Motions Pictures Canada to go the press screening of the movie SECRETARIAT, I was really excited because I'm a huge fan of both stars of the movie, Diane Lane and John Malkovich.

Based on the remarkable true story, SECRETARIAT chronicles the spectacular journey of the 1973 Triple Crown winner. Housewife and mother Penny Chenery (Diane Lane) agrees to take over her ailing father’s Virginia-based Meadow Stables, despite her lack of horse-racing knowledge. Against all odds, Chenery—with the help of veteran trainer Lucien Laurin (John Malkovich)—manages to navigate the male-dominated business, ultimately fostering the first Triple Crown winner in 25 years and what may be the greatest racehorse of all time.

The movie is the story of a hero: a massive, chestnut-colored horse, known to his friends and family as Big Red. Everyone else calls him Secretariat. The movie is also about another hero—Penny Chenery Tweedy, whose faith in this horse galvanized the nation, revolutionizing horse racing and ultimately, changing her life's course completely.

I'm giving away a famiy four pass to SECRETARIAT for Wednesday, October 6th at 7:00 p.m. at Silver City, Gloucester.

Leave me a comment if you're interested in attending!

I'll pick a winner randomly tomorrow.

Live Clean Baby giveaway!

2010-09-21T06:49:00.000-07:00

Congrats number 6 - Lady Mama! Email me your address!

As a mom of two young children, I'm very picky when selecting products to use on their fine baby skin. We usually stick to brands that are trusted and true, like Johnson's Baby Shampoo and lotions.

However, I was recently introduced to the Live Clean Baby line, and I instantly fell in love. The products can be used for children and adults, and when I received the Live Clean Baby line, I used the Baby Bath, Shampoo and Wash, Baby Lotion and Non-Petroleum Jelly on my boys—and myself—and we were all happy with the results. I would give the Live Clean Baby line to any friend with a new baby—that's how much I love the products! Live Clean also makes a bar soap for children that is lightly scented, as well as a fragrant free bar for babies with extra sensitive skin.

Live Clean was the first company to take 'green beauty' out of the health food stores and into stores where more Canadians shops. You can find Live Clean products on the shelves at the Superstore, Loblaws, and WalMart, to name a few.

The best part about Live Clean is that the products—from the soaps to the shampoo to the moisturizers—are not only luxurious, but are also environmentally-responsible products that are good for the Earth. Live Clean formulations are made with 96% replenishable, renewable and sustainable plant ingredients that are as good for the earth as they are for your body

Live Clean would also like to give one of my readers the entire Live Clean baby line! All you have to do to enter is leave me a comment below!

I will randomly pick a winner on September 27th.

Good Luck!

Turbo Dogs DVD Giveaway!

2010-09-14T19:33:00.001-07:00

Congrats to the winners: Mom2Michael, Shannon, and Shannon! Please email me your address!

A few months ago, while watching CBC in the morning with my children, we stumbled across a new show called Turbo Dogs.

My children are not huge television watchers, but they instantly liked this show! Turbo Dogs is about a group of, well, dogs who also happen to be race car drivers. Dash, Mags, G7, Strut, Stinkbert and Clutch are the towns 'turbo dogs' and even though they are very competitive, as well as local celebrities in their city - they try to remember that winning isn't everything!

Turbo Dogs is funny, action-packed, colourful, and it teaches children positive messages. It also won the 2009 Parents Choice Award.

Turbo Dogs was adapted by the picture "Racer Dogs" by Bob Kolar, and the show was created by the producers of Veggie Tales.

Your children can watch Turbo Dogs on CBC every Monday to Friday at 7:15 and 11:15 a.m.

I'm happy to announce that I'm giving away 3 Turbo Dogs DVD's, each featuring 7 episodes, to 3 lucky readers!

If you would like to win a copy of the DVD, all you have to do is leave me a comment below.

Good Luck!

3 winners will be picked randomly on September 20th.

Summer may be over, but Lay's Chip Trips are not!

2010-09-13T20:06:00.000-07:00

It was a great experience being one of the Lay's Chip Trips Ambassadors!

This summer, my family was able to experience some of the great perks Lay's Chip Trips had to offer simply by collecting points with Lay's Chips, things like free kids meals at Boston Pizza, half-price at the Marriott hotel, free meals at Subway, and so much more!

All you have to do is get yourself a bag of any flavour of Lay's Chips, enjoy, and then submit the points online to redeem your savings on a number of amazing attractions and places - from discounts at museums, amusements parks, restaurants, and so much more, there is something fun for the entire family to enjy!

The Lay's Chip Trips program will remain open until December 31st, 2010, so there is still plenty of time for your to redeem your points for some fun across Canada!

Disclosure: I am participating in the Lay’s® Chip Trips program by Mom Central on
behalf of Frito Lay Canada. I received Lay’s® Chip Trips points and a gift card to off-set my trip costs to facilitate this post. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Win a back-to-school gift basket from Avery Demison!

2010-09-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to lucky number 4, REBECCA! Yay!

One of my favourite things about going back-to-school was the shopping. Not only for new clothes and boots, but for actual school items like pens, binders, and Hi-Liters. I love school supply shopping!

When I was at the Avery sponsored SocialLuxe party during BlogHer in New York City this past August, I started thinking about my son going back to school, and how it meant that I'd have to start buying supplies again—and that made me very excited! (I was also busy eating lots of fine Ghirardelli chocolate, which was so delish, I almost forgot to bring some back home for my boys!)

Well, the fabulous folks at Avery Demison have put together this amazing back-to-school gift basket filled with everything you need (or everything your child needs) to return to school. Or, for you to use at work. Or at home.

The products in this gift basket are amazing! You'll receive Avery NoteTabs, Label Pads, Hi-Liters, Glue Stics, Labels, Binders, Dividers, Markers and more—a retail value of $50!

One of my readers will get all this without even having to go shopping for their must-have back-to-school items! How fabulous, right?

Avery has also put together a sweepstake just for teachers! If you're a teacher, you can also enter the Avery Celebrates Teachers Sweepstakes here. In honour of all that teachers do for children on a daily basis, (did you know that teachers on average spend $500 of their own money on supplies for their students?) this sweepstake aims to alleviate some of the financial burden they spend on supplies throughout the year.

The Avery Celebrates Teachers Sweepstakes closes on September 15th so enter now! Here is the link to the rules. Contest open to U.S. residents only.

The grand prize package includes: a goodie bag of Avery products valued at $500, a SpaFinder gift card valued at $350, and a Starbucks gift card valued at $150.

Three second prize packages valued at $200 each.

Five third price packages valued at $80 each.

If you would like to enter to win this awesome gift basket, just leave me a comment below!

I'll pick a winner on September 12th, randomly.

GOOD LUCK!

Disclosure:I will be receiving products from Avery and an AveryGift Basket valued at $50 to give away to one of my readers and in return I am getting the word out about the Avery Teachers Sweepstakes.

Thermos giveaway: Lunch Kit, Straw Bottle and Food Jar!

2010-08-18T11:06:00.000-07:00

Updated: Congrats lucky number 16 on winning the Thermos package! Email me your info!

Can you believe it's almost time for back to school? While some of you may be singing along to the Staples commercial, happy to see your little ones go back, I'm feeling... well, okay. I am kind of excited, too! I'm not nervous like last year, when my oldest son was starting kindergarten for the first time - instead, I'm happy because I know he'll do amazing!

One of my favourite things about going back to school was the shopping, of course. My son doesn't seem to share the same enthusiasm as me, but that's okay!

Last year, I looked all over for a cute backpack and lunch kit for my son to use at school, and I finally found the perfect set at Pottery Barn Kids.

This year, Thermos sent me the new blue camo lunch kit, fun-tainer straw bottle, and fun-tainer food jar. My son loves his new lunch kit, bottle, and food jar!

The lunch kit is heat sealed, leak-proof, and contains a PEVA lining. With IsoTec technology, contents stay fresh and safe from spillage. (It's really nice, and easy to carry, too!)

The fun-tainer straw bottles keeps drinks cold for up to 12 hours, thanks to the ThermaMax vacuum insulation technology. The neat thing about this drinking bottle is the push button lid with pop-up straw for easy sipping. Perfect for the little ones!

I can pack something warm for my son to eat in the fun-tainer food jar, too - the jar keeps food hot for 5 hours! It's also a great container to put sliced fruit in, because it keeps food cold for 7 hours.

Of course, I'm not the only one who gets to enjoy these fabulous new products!

Thermos is giving away one of each to one of my lucky readers, too! That's right - you can win a lunch kit, fun-tainer straw bottle and fun-tainer food jar just in time for school!

You can choose from either the pink camo set, the peace sign set, or the green army set. See pictures below.

All you have to do to win? Leave me a comment telling me if you're excited about your children starting school again!

Bonus entry: Become a follower of this blog!

Good Luck - I will pick a winner on August 24th! Contest open to U.S. and Canadian citizens.

Summer Fun!

2010-08-14T06:18:00.001-07:00

My family and I recently went to Mont Tremblant for our summer vacation. Mont Tremblant is always a gorgeous place to visit, and we were excited to take our children there for the first time.

We got there in the new GMC Terrain, thanks to GM Canada. The ride up was a great one, despite the couple of times we had to make emergency stops due to car-sickness! (The children, not me!) However, my boys loved the vehicle, and it was roomy enough to fit all our luggage, too.

We stayed at the lovely Marriott Hotel, and thanks to the Lays Chip Trips campaign, we were able to enjoy 50% off our second night at the Marriott. It was such a great deal and something that was super easy to attain, too! The Marriott offered free buffet breakfast for the whole family, which was a great deal, and the hotel had a great pool for the kids to enjoy, as well.

Mont Tremblant is stunning during the winter months, but it's just as breathtaking in the summer, too - and there is so much to do for the entire family!

We had fun taking the gondola rides over and over again, looking at the beautiful views, taking a boat ride on the lake, swimming in the pool and enjoying the new water park in the village.

We can't wait to go back - hopefully in the winter!

For more great suggestions on where to go for family fun, Lays Chip Trips has also partnered with the Canadian Tourism Commission to bring you all the information you need about where to go with the entire family in Canada. Check out the new website to see all the great deals.

There is so much to explore and so much to do in this gorgeous country!

Disclosure - I am participating in the Lay’s® Chip Trips program by Mom Central onbehalf of Frito Lay Canada. I received Lay’s® Chip Trips points and a gift card to off-set my tripcosts to facilitate this post. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Playhouse Disney Canada Blog Tour!

2010-08-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

Congrats to the winner, lucky number 5! Email me your address! Thank you!

My children are not huge television watchers, especially in the summer months, but there are some shows they enjoy watching - like recently, they discovered the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Handy Manny, thanks to my involvement in the Playhouse Disney Canada Blog Tour.

Playhouse Disney is a channel that moms have come to respect because the programming features quality shows and content that both kids and parents can like! There is something for children of all ages to enjoy.

And it's pretty cool to see our favourite characters from when we were young (Mickey Mouse! Goofy! Donald Duck!) come to life again for our children.

To show you how great Playhouse Disney is, I'm giving away a prize pack to one of you lucky readers! The prize pack includes:

- A DVD with 5 full episodes of Handy Manny, Imagination Movers, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Special Agent Oso and My Friends Tigger and Pooh.

- Pencils and a magnetic pen.

- Colouring magnets.

All you have to do is leave me a comment about your child's favourite Disney show for your chance to win!

Giveaway is open to Canadian residents only and I'll pick a winner randomly on August 18th.

Good Luck!

I am particiapting in the Playhouse Disney program by Mom Central. I received a Playhouse Disney prize pack and a thank you gift card to facilitate this post. The opinions on thsi blog are my own.

iTunes giveaway!

2010-08-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

Congrats Mom2Micael! You're the lucky winner! Email me your address! Thanks!

I don't know about your children, by my boys, who are 5 and 2, have almost no problems at all with using mine and my husband's iPhone and iPad. They're so young, and yet, they're very familiar with touch screen technology as well as finding the things they're looking for on our devices - such as games, stories, and songs! I wonder what the future has in store for our children, who are already so tech-savvy? Good things, I'm sure!

My 5 year old loves the app 'Elements' on our iPad, and he certainly knows more about the periodic table of elements than I do! He also loves playing the game Memory on the iPad and he has a few favourite apps on the iPhone, as well. My 2 year old loves the app Talking Carl - he laughs and laughs!

Now we have something new to add to the list of fun apps our boys love! I was selected to be part of the My Living Stories Blog Tour, which is amazing, since like I mentioned, by boys love using our iPhone's! My husband always downloads fun apps for them, and now we are adding this one to our list, too.

The My Living Stories apps combine beautiful artwork, narration and interactive features in an easy to use platform that is perfect for preschoolers to read along all on their own! It's a great way to entertain the kids on road trips, while teaching them to read, too. Bonus! Interactive sounds and animation bring your children's favourite stories to life - it's very neat! Another amazing feature? The ability to record your OWN voice to go along with the story - how cool is that?

Some of the My Living Stories include The Princess and the Pea, The Tortoise and the Hare, Little Red Riding Hood and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. My oldest son loves Little Red Riding Hood and Goldilocks and the Three Bears!

How about a chance for you win a $25 gift card to iTunes?

All you have to do is leave me a comment telling me which My Living Stories story you think your children would love the most.

Bonus entry: What do you think the best apps for children are? Let me know in a seperate comment!

This iTunes giveaway is open to Canadian residents only, and I'll pick a winner on August 9th!
Readers may enter the contest on multiple blogs but are only eligible to win one iTunes gift card as part of the My Living Stories contest.

Disclosure: I am participating in the My Living Stories program by Mom Central on behalf of Decode Entertainment. I received 3 free apps and a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

I'm giving away a bottle of yummy Merlot. Yes, a WINE giveaway!

2010-07-28T19:58:00.000-07:00

“I’ve been fortunate to be able to provide for my children. I want to do my part to make sure other kids get the opportunities in life they deserve." (Stuntman Stu)

Several years ago, I worked with a local television station on a show called Ottawa Living - which was - you guessed it - all about living in Ottawa! I was the 'Girl Around Town' and the show was hosted by a local radio personality, Stuntman Stu.

Recently, Stuntman Stu (who can be heard every morning on 93.9 BOB FM) launched his own wine label to raise money for the Sens Foundation. The Sens Foundation is an organization that supports hundreds of local charities dedicated to improving the lives of children.

Two dollars from the sale of every bottle goes to the Sens Foundation. Stuntman Stu teamed up with Ottawa sommelier Debbie Trenholm, president of SavvyCompany for this fun project. Because I am no good as describing wine to other people other than saying: "It was SO good! You have to try this wine!" I'm going to use a quote from Debbie Trenholm to describe the taste of this amazing Merlot: "This medium-bodeid Merlot has aromas and tastes of black cherry and plum, with a peppery finish. It is smooth and easy to drink with anything from pizza to barbeque steak."

I was given a bottle of Stuntman Stu's Red Line Merlot VQA 2008 to try and I can honestly say it was one of the best Merlot's I've ever tasted! And, um. I drink a lot of wine! It was smooth and I polished off 2 glasses in a very short period of time.

Do you want to try this yummy wine, too? Well - I am giving away a bottle right here! Just leave me a comment telling me what your favourite type of wine is. I will pick a winner using random.org next Wednesday, August 4th!

Contest is open to anyone who lives in Ottawa, or is willing to come to Ottawa to pick up the yummy bottle of wine!

Good Luck!

Stuntman Stu Red Line Merlot VQA 2008 can be ordered from www.stuntmanstu.com orwww.savvycompany.ca for $19.95 a bottle ($239.40 per 12-bottle case).

Fantastic Crayola Giveaway!

2010-07-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

Congrats number 37, you are the lucky winner! ModernMom, just send me your address so I can mail you your Crayola products!)

When you think of crayons, what do you think of? If you said Crayola, you're not alone! Crayola products are everywhere in our house, and the only crayons my children use are Crayola crayons because they are so much more vibrant than other brands, and the selection of colours is never ending!

One of my favourite things to do with my children is to draw and make crafts with them - it's our special time and we often do a craft or two every night before bedtime, even if it's just colouring. Also, in the summer, we spend a lot of time having fun with our Crayola Sidewalk Chalk!

As a member of the Crayola’s Mom Advisory Panel, I am fortunate to receive various Crayola products throughout the year to test out with my boys - we love using the Markers, Sidewalk Chalk, Crayons, Color Wonder Stow & Go Studio (especially on road trips!) and the Pip-Squeaks Color Writers.

Well, guess what? It's giveaway time! Crayola is offering one of my lucky readers two amazing products - the Pip-Squeaks Color Writers and the Color Wonder Stow & Go Studio!

The Pip-Squeaks Color Writers are a huge hit with moms and children because you'll never lose the caps of the markers - the cap is attached to the marker, which is a huge bonus because it means you don't have to worry about markers drying out or lost marker lids that could be a choking hazard for infants.

The Color Wonder Stow & Go Studio is a fantastic product that we always take on road trips - it's a perfect activity for summer travel because it has a section for marker storage and a section for book storage, allowing your kids to write while they're in their car seats without a hassle! And if children are happily occupied in the car, it makes for a much more pleasant drive for mom and dad, too!

Would you like to win these great Crayola products? (Of course you would!)

All you have to do is leave me a comment below!

Bonus entries:

Tweet about this giveaway!

Follow Loulou's Reviews and Loulou's Views!

Good Luck! (This contest is open to both US and Canadian residents. I will pick one winner using random.org on July 28th!)

Lay's Chips Trips Summer Fun!

2010-07-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!

Next weekend we are packing up and heading on a road trip for our little summer vacation to beautiful Mont Tremblant.

Because I'm a Lay's Chips Trips Ambassador, I was able to use some of my points to score 50% off our second night at the Marriott Hotel!

Of course, what's a road trip without some yummy junk food to enjoy en route, right? You can bet you'll see some pictures of us enjoying some 'can't stop at just one' Lay's Chips along the way!

Once we arrive and check-in to our beautiful hotel, we plan on staying busy - taking in the sights of Tremblant, going on the Gondola ride over and over again, eating at some of the fine restaurants in the Village, walking around, doing some shopping, and, of course, swimming in our hotel pool, and exploring the beautiful lake!

We usually go to Tremblant in the winter months, so we're even more excited to experience the beauty of Tremblant in the summer - thanks to Lay's for helping make this trip happen!

Have you signed up with Lay's yet? Once you do, you'll be able to save on so much this summer - from amusement parks and hotels, to restaurants and local attractions! It's so simple - just go here to get yourself started! All you have to do is buy a bag of chips, (I know, I'm twisting your arm, right?) bank your points online, and then... find a trip and redeem your points as you choose! It couldn't be more simple - or more rewarding!

Disclosure - I am participating in the Lay’s® Chip Trips program by Mom Central on behalf of Frito Lay Canada. I received Lay’s® Chip Trip points and a gift card to off-set my trip costs to facilitate this post. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Try not to pee yourself - but - diaper giveaway!

2010-07-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

Update: Winners have been selected using random.org. Congrats to: Sherriemae23 - you won TWO packs! And congrats to Krystyn and Lyndsey!

If you have an infant in diapers, this giveaway is for you!

My 2 year old son is almost all toilet trained - thanks in part to his big brother, because everything he does, my little one wants to do, too. However, we're not completely out of the diaper stage just yet!

Huggies has come out with some new diapers - have you seen the 'jeans' diapers? They're pretty cute, don't you think? I was given a pack of the new Huggies Jeans Diapers to try, but they were too small on my 40 pound 2 year old! The company were nice enough to mail me a coupon for another pack of Huggies, though! Thank you!

That doesn't mean you can't get some for your little fashionable babe - however, Huggies Jeans Diapers are here for a limited time only, so if you want your child to wear them, you're going to have hurry! Huggies Jeans Diapers are shaped to fit like classic Huggies Little Movers Diapers - offering great leakage protection moms can trust!

You have a chance to win! I'm giving away 4 packs of Jumbo Huggies diapers right here! The 4 winners will receive a coupon in the mail that will be good for one jumbo pack (any kind!) of Huggies diapers.

To enter:

Leave me a comment!

Bonus entry 1:

Follow Loulou's Reviews and tell me so in a seperate comment.

Bonus entry 2:

Follow @Huggies on Twitter, and tell me you follow them in a seperate comment!

Easy-peasy, right?

This giveaway is open to Canadian and U.S. citizens.

Good Luck! I'll pick a winner on July 13th using random.org.

Oh, Canada! A story book prize pack worth $200!

2010-06-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

Update: Congrats, lucky number 7 - Maria aka BORED MOMMY - you won! Enjoy the prize pack.

One of my most favourite things to do with my children is to read to them. Especially before bedtime. It's a routine I have shared with my oldest son (with my youngest, we're almost at that book before bed routine!) since I can remember.

He has quite a few 'favourite' books we read each night, and he'll select from his vast collection of books the ones he wants me to read to him each night. Of course, some nights, I'll even read the same book twice!

Among his favourite books? Anything by Richard Scarry, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Amelia Bedelia, Down By The Station, and so many more!

Do you remember your favourite bedtime story as a child?

Whatever the book, reading with your children before bedtime is an excellent way for you and your child to share in something special together while creating memories that will last forever.

Despite the busy lifestyles faced by the majority of Canadian families, storytime is something many of them are still making part of their bedtime route. In fact according to a recent survey commissioned by Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal, 88 per cent of parents with children under the age of 12 read a bedtime story to their children on a regular basis.

In an effort to make bedtime easier and to encourage storytime among parents and their children, Kellogg partnered up with Kids Can Press, and is offering a free copy of Per-Henrik Gürth’s Oh, Canada! book with the purchase of specially-marked boxes of Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal while supplies last.

Just in time for Canada Day, the story will take families on a whirlwind tour of Canada to discover all there is to see and do.

We have ABC of Canada by the same author, and my son totally loves it- the illustrations are great, and the book itself is a wonderful read. It was also helpful in getting my son to learn the alphabet.

You don't have to buy a box of Rice Krispies to receive a copy of Oh, Canada! though - all you have to do is leave me a comment below telling me what your favourite bedtime story was when you were a child, and why.

Not only will you win this book, you'll win a gift basket with over $200!

The package includes:

A signed copy of Per-Henrick Gürth’s Oh, Canada! book, as well as Canada 123 and ABC of Canada.

A child-sized apron and lunch bag monogrammed with Gürth’s familiar Canadiana artwork designs.

A warm and soft Rice Krispies snuggle blanket, perfect for storytime.

A matching set of two Rice Krispies cereal bowls/spoons.

A generous supply of Rice Krispies cereal for the whole family to enjoy!

So go ahead... tell me what your favourite bedtime story was! I will pick a winner randomly on July 4th.

Good Luck, and happy reading!

Giveaway! Keeping YOU protected this summer!

2010-06-25T06:19:00.000-07:00

Winner selected by random.org: Karma! Lucky number 2! Congrats to you!

What do Marcia Cross and Matthew McConaughey have in common? They both dress their children in UV Skinz!

The owner of UV Skinz recently sent my boys some stylish, high quality sun protective swim wear, including 2 adorable sun hats to wear during these summer months - and they couldn't have come at a more perfect time, since we spend so much time in the pool and in the sun!

UN Skinz swim wear carries a UPF rating of 50+, blocking out over 98% of the sun's harmful UV rays while at the same time protecting skin from damaging sunburns.

If you're like me, it can sometimes be a struggle to apply sunscreen to young children - so wearing the UV Skinz protective swim wear can protect your children that much more!

UV Skinz keeps babies, kids - and adults, too - covered from head to toe in reversible UV bucket hats, long and short sleeved UV swim shirts, UV boardshorts and UV boy-cut shorts.

My oldest son received his board shorts and shirt in his favourite colour - turquiose - that reverses to navy blue, with a matching bucket hat.

The swim wear is bright and colorful and designed to be mixed and matched with the added benefit of helping you be able to easily spot your children during water play time or in crowded public places.

UN Skinz wants to keep your children protected this summer, too!

The owner of UV Skins is offering one of my readers one UV Skinz item of your choice - all you have to do is go to the website and select the item you want to win!

Leave a comment below telling me what item you would pick if you won this giveaway, and I'll pick a winner on Wednesday, June 30th!

For a bonus entry, follow my review blog!

Contest is open to both U.S. and Canadian residents.

Good Luck and stay safe in the sun!

Coming soon!

2010-06-22T06:30:00.001-07:00

I wanted to let you know that over the next few weeks I'm going to be hosting some really great giveaways and reviews that you are not going to want to miss!

CSN Stores, a company I have worked with before (having received a awesome play tent for my boys and giving away a Melissa and Doug wooden fruit toy) contacted me again for another giveaway and review! How fabulous! I'll be receiving and reviewing this awesome tricycle for my 2 year old:

I just know he'll love it, because his favourite thing to do is ride on cars and bikes!

And? You'll be receiving a gift certificate to use at one of their hundreds of online stores, too!

Contrary to what you may believe, I'm not a huge online shopper. However, with CSN, there is literally something for everyone - no matter what you're looking for! If you're looking for a new bathroom vanity? You will certainly find what you want here. There are hundreds of educational and fun toys to choose from too, as well as children's furniture, wall art and mirrors. If you're looking for a new set of pots and pans for your kitchen, well, you'll find quite the selection, too! Head over to this site to find top brands like Henckels, DeLonghi, Cuisinart and Kitchen Aid - to name a few - for everything you need for your kitchen! I am so excited to be working with CSN again - stay tuned for the giveaway!

Even more great giveaways to come, including your choice of product from UV Skinz to keep your children protecting from harmful UV rays this summer, a fun package from Crayola, and... wait for it... WINE! Yes, I'm giving away a bottle of yummy red red wine tomorrow, so make sure to stop by for your chance to win!

Boppy love - a double giveaway!

2010-06-15T09:33:00.000-07:00

Winners selected by Random.org: Congrats to lucky number 6 and lucky number 9! Contact me so I can arrange to have the Boppy's sent to you!

Before you have a baby, there is so much you don't know. Like what the must useful items will be that you'll end up using over and over again once your baby is born. One thing every new mom should have is the Boppy.

The Boppy has been voted America's favourite baby product seven times - and it's no wonder, really!

Essentially, the Boppy is a nursing pillow - used for feeding your baby - but it's also so much more. The Boppy can be used as a support pillow, placing you in a more comfortable position to help relieve stress on your back and neck, while allowing you to get even closer to your baby while you feed him or her.

Your baby can relax and play when they are a few months old while safely being propped up with the Boppy - so you're free to empty that dishwasher or have that much needed cup of coffee!

The Boppy helps your baby sit, and as baby’s muscles get stronger, the Boppy offers the perfect little nest to support sitting.

The Boppy pillow also provides the support your baby needs to help build upper body strength during tummy time.

You can build your own Boppy, by selecting from a wide variety of slip covers. The choices are endless!

The wonderful folks from Boppy have given me three Boppy pillows - one to give to my sister who is about to have her baby (ANY day now!) and two to give away to a couple of my fabulous readers.

Are you pregnant?
Are you a new mom?
Do you have a good friend or relative who is a new mom, or is about to become a new mom?

Then you should enter this giveaway! The Boppy makes a great baby shower gift, too!

Below are the two pillows I'll be giving away to lucky people. Aren't they so nice?

All you have to do to enter is leave me a comment telling me who you'd give your Boppy to - or if you'll keep it!

For a bonus entry, become a follower of Loulou's Reviews and tell me in a seperate comment.

Good Luck!

For more information on the Boppy, click here!

$50 Boston Pizza gift card giveaway!

2010-06-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

The winner is... lucky number 11 - Congrats to A Crafty Mom! I know it's a bit of a drive for you, but it's worth it! Enjoy!

If you live in the Ottawa area - you are in luck, because this giveaway is just for you!

This week, Boston Pizza Orleans had a private taste-testing party to introduce new items on their menu - items that will leave your mouth watering - like new thin-crust pizzas and pasta dishes that will be very hard to avoid if you're trying to avoid carbs! I was invited, but unable to attend, which is really too bad, because pizza is my favourite food!

I used to frequent Boston Pizza when I worked at what was then The New RO - News Six Ottawa, and now, I go to the Orleans location with my family whenever we get the chance.

It's a great place for the entire family. Boston Pizza has a great children's menu, and something for every adult to enjoy - from wings, to salads, to crispy chicken wraps and nachos, to gourmet pasta dishes, (baked seven cheese ravioli, anyone?) and of course, pizza - the classic, the make-your-own, the thin crust... you will never leave hungry, but you will leave wondering when you'll be back!

Leslie, the wonderful Community Relations Coordinator at Boston Pizza Orleans (you're all following her on Twitter, right? If not, you should be - she's a sweetheart! She's @BPOrleans) has generously given me a $50 gift certificate at Boston Pizza Orleans for me to give to one of my awesome readers!

And it is SO easy to win - all you have to do is leave me a comment telling me what menu item you're most excited to try!

For a bonus entry, follow Loulou's Views and Loulou's Reviews!

I will pick the winner on Monday, June 14th, using random.org.

This giveaway is open to Canadian residents only. Note: The $50 gift certificate can only be used at the Boston Pizza Orleans location. I will mail the gift certificate to the winner.

Thanks - and good luck!

Mama cards!

2010-06-06T16:25:00.001-07:00

I'm a huge fan of Mabel's Labels. I was first introduced to them before my oldest son started kingergarten this year, and I quickly purchased the school combo pack. Once my package arrived in the mail, I labelled my son's clothes, and used the tag mates for his backpack and lunch box. They were so cute, I had to get some for my youngest son, too, to put on his sippy cups and clothes, even though he wasn't in school yet.

Aside from seeing the cute Mabels Label's ads in countless numbers of magazines, I got to know the ladies behind Mabels Label's through Twitter this year. Let me just say, Julie and Caitlin are amazing women - it's no wonder they have such an amazing and useful company! (You can follow Mabels Label's on Twitter: @mabelhood)

Just last week, I heard that Mabel's Labels had come out with 'mama cards' - basically, business cards for moms that are much cuter than the average business card - with room on the back to write personal messages, too.

I sent out a tweet saying how cute I thought the Posey design was (pictured above; you can choose from 5 different styles) and the next thing I knew, the lovely ladies at Mabels had sent me 100 beautiful personalized mama cards! How nice was that? Very.

I can't wait to use my new cards at BlogHer to pass around to everyone, and I also can't wait to pass around these cards to the people I meet at the playground and at my son's school. Talk about cute and practical! If you need new cards, Mabels Label's is the place to order them from!

Thank you, Mabels Label's!

Shut Up and Eat: Interview with the author AND a giveaway!

2010-06-01T07:49:00.000-07:00

Congrats to the winners! Lucky numbers 6, 7 and 18! (Jen, Poppyweed, and Shan! Just email me your address, winners, so the books can be sent out to you!) Thanks again for entering!

A few months ago, I met Canadian author and writer Kathy Buckworth. Kathy was a joy to meet - super sweet, funny, and easy to get along with. She's also the only two-time winner of the Professional Writers Association of Canada Excellence in Humour Writing Award! Her new book, "Shut Up and Eat! Tales of chicken, children, and chardonnay" recently hit book shelves, and I was given the chance to read and review her book.

I thought it was hilarious! The best part were the recipes that were in the book. Some are simple enough for even ME , Mrs. Culinary Disaster, to master. (Not that I've tried any, but I know one of these days I will!)

I asked Kathy a few questions about her book, and about writing in general - here are her answers:

Kathy, what inspired you to write Shut Up and Eat?

Shut Up and Eat grew out of an article I wrote for Today’s Parent (called "Dinner Diaries") which actually won a humour award. It was all about how we have this idealized vision of what a family meal is going to be like..and then the startling reality. I started thinking about how food is such an integral part of raising kids – from the minute they’re born with breast versus bottle, all the way up to picky toddlers, Instant-vegetarian teenagers, and everyone in between. I also wanted to share some recipes that I’ve been using for years that seem to be real family favourites.

One of my favourite parts of the book was when you talked about giving your husband a list for the grocery store, saying: "He will 'shop the list'. What I mean by this is that he doesn't add a single item to the car that isn't on the list." That happens to me, too! Every time my husband goes grocery shopping with a list I've prepared, I wait in anticipation to see what treats he'll bring home to me, only to be greated with... nothing more than what I had on the list. WHY does this happen? Why do we know to stock up the cart with emergency chocolate? (*In all fairness, I must say, the only person who does the cooking in our house is my husband!)

I’m not sure why these guys don’t give into impulse shopping at the grocery store – the same way they do at the Home Depot, or even at a car dealership. I think it comes down to them really not knowing (and hence not OWNING) how we feed our families. I want to be them in my next life. It seems quite peaceful.

The breakfast battle - so glad to read I'm not alone here! And I only have two children to feed in the morning! How do you make sure all 4 of your children are fed before heading out the door? (For me, as long as I'm making eggs - one of the few things I have mastered - my boys are happy!)

My older kids grab something as they run out the door, and if they don’t....well they don’t. I know breakfast is important but not everyone is hungry first thing in the morning. I start hounding my little guys early to make sure they have time to eat, and I basically give them three choices every morning, otherwise they would never decide. I really don’t mind if they have the same thing every morning, as long as they don’t miss that school bus!

What's your favourite recipe in Shut Up and Eat? (I think mine is the Sugar Pie - does it taste as good as it sounds?)

Sugar Pie is awesome. Love it. My favourite recipe though, is probably the Salsa Pot Roast because it only has two ingredients and you can make it in two minutes. Love my crockpot, winter or summer.

You talk about the snack culutre in your book, how we brings snacks with us no matter where we go - I am so guilt of this, but even if we go to the grocerty store - for crying out loud - I've loaded up the car with snacks! (I think I get this from my mom who even on a two-hour road trip will bring a 10 course meal!) What would happen to our children if we didn't leave the house with a snack? Would the world fall apart?

I think kids need to get good and hungry sometimes so that they’ll appreciate the big family meal when they sit down, instead of complaining and becoming picky eaters. My kids go to sleep away camp, and there are no midday snacks – just three big meals – and all of my kids come home saying how amazingly good the food is. I think it’s because they’re so hungry (hunger being the best spice), and that they know this is it and if they don’t eat it, there’s no Mom running behind them with Shrek fruit chews or an organic banana. When my kids say "I’m hungry!" I say "Good! Maybe you’ll eat the nasty dinner I made now!"

I loved reading your dieting tips - what is your number one piece of dieting advice for your readers? (Aside from taking Body Pump - something we often love to talk about on Twitter!)

I think the best piece of dieting advice I received is to take small portions, and don’t go back for seconds, even if you feel hungry. It takes our brains about half an hour to catch up to whether we’re still hungry or not. I drink lots of water and eat non-cream based soups to keep me going during the day. And remember – one work out probably only lets you have one extra granola bar a day (about 300 calories), so don’t rely entirely on exercise. It can in fact make you hungrier. Exercising is for what’s under the skin.

Any plans for another book?

I am currently working on my next book and having fun with it. I’ll reveal it when I’ve settled on the title. But I think it’ll be something all Moms will be able to relate to. I hope!

What words of advice do you have for people who want to write and publish a book of their own? How did you get started?

1. Write. It’s amazing to me how many people say they want to be writers, yet they haven’t written a single word that they would care to have published. Write. Keep writing.

2. Do your homework. I went to the library and read the Canadian Writers Handbook, the Canadian Writers Marketplace, I joined writers associations, talked to writers, and got to know publishers and magazines/newspapers where I wanted to be. I mailed out over a hundred book proposals to publishers, and was lucky to get picked up by a busy working Mom editor in Illinois. That was my first book, "The Secret Life of Supermom", in 2004.

3. Develop an audience. Either online (through a blog) or in print – start by writing for local publications, find your voice, and then pitch bigger publications. This will help when trying to secure a publisher or agent.

4. Write some more!

Thank you Kathy!

Now, for the giveaway! 3 lucky readers will win a copy of Kathy's new book, Shut Up and Eat! Tales of chicken, children, and chardonnay AND a copy of The BlackBerry Diaries!

All you have to do to enter is leave me a comment telling me what your favourite meal to cook (and eat) is!

You also get a bonus entry by becoming a follower of Loulou's Reviews! Just leave a seperate comment telling me you're now following!

I will randomly pick a winner on Monday, June 7th. (This giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian residents!)

Good Luck!

HP TouchSmart 300 PC review!

2010-05-29T11:48:00.001-07:00

I was recently given the chance to review the new HP TouchSmart 300 PC. What did I think of it? Read on to find out if this should be your next computer purchase!

Design:

First of all - this is one good looking computer! Having no space left in the house for gadgets, computers, or just about anything else, I decided to put this computer on the dining room table. It actually looks good there! This computer is truly an all in one - no giant box connected to a monitor with wires everywhere. I love it.

Set-up:

Plug into wall, plug into computer. Done, that's it. Seriously. Oh one more step, hit power button. I guess my next observations are based on the ease of use of this system in conjunction with Windows 7. More on Windows 7 in a second. The computer seamlessly picked up the wireless mouse and the multiple function keyboard. This was very pleasing, as I've been in wireless connectivity hell in the past, but not this time! Software set-up was also simple - the usual registration info and that was just about it. (Connecting to the Internet was also almost instant, just entered my wifi password and that was that!)

Windows 7:

Very happy! I am running Windows Vista right now and my frustrations with the slow and poor response times have grown to unbearable levels. I can easily say that is no longer true. Very responsive, very quick and super user-friendly. As I already said, it all just worked. No cryptic questions, it just worked. And what more could I ask for?

Multimedia and Internet:

Import all my pictures in one step, yes. Import all my videos in one step, check. Make a picture CD and video DVD without pulling out my hair, double check! I have to say, this rivals my husbands iMac for ease of use. The internet is blazingly fast and ran without a problem. I blogged, I tweeted, I surfed and shopped. No problems at all except for a smaller balance in my PayPal account! Overall I ran into no issues to speak of. I'm attributing this to the combination of the excellent hardware paired with an awesome operating system.

Hardware:

The word "touch" is in this computer's name for a good reason. The beautiful and vibrant screen is fully inviting as a giant touch screen. Being used to this way of doing things with my iPhone I have to say that the transition could not have been easier. Even more interesting was the fact that my 4 year old was far more happy to use the screen to navigate around. A mouse can be challenging for a child, the touch screen made it a breeze for him. The most useful part of this touch screen technology is when was surfing the net. I don't know much about the inner workings of a computer, but whatever they packed into this elegant machine is much faster than anything I have used in the past. One thing that really bothers me about desktops is a loud fan -not a problem here! I can actually hear what is going on around me with this computer. The wireless mouse is pretty much standard and the wireless keyboard has all the extra buttons you'd expect from a modern computer; volume control, media playback, it's all there.

Conclusion:

HP has made a very quick, responsive and sexy computer. My kids love it, I love it and I think I've caught my technophile husband enjoying it. They are priced well and probably even better when you consider that you are getting everything you need in one easy to set-up box. We are all impressed and are seriously considering making one of these our next family computer!

Thanks HP for letting me test out the new TouchSmart 300 PC!

Lay's Chip Trips!

2010-05-28T06:23:00.001-07:00

If I asked you what your favourite snack is, I bet a lot of you would say chips! And why not - who doesn't love chips? I must admit, it is one of my guilty pleasures. You know what else I love? Summer! And taking my children to the local attractions this city has to offer. Well, Lay's Chips has develeped a program called Lay's Chips Trips to give Canadian families a simple way to enjoy summer at home without having to spend a whole lot of money. (It's so simple!)

Here's how it works:

Lay's Chip Trips promotion offers Canadians a chance to celebrate a whole season of fun with friends and family at their favourite local attractions. All you have to do?

• Go to Lays.ca and create an account. Then, enter the code "LOULO-UVIEW" - this will give you 10 free points to get started! (This code is only valid until May 31st though!)

• To add more points to your 'bank', pick up a specially marked bag of Lay’s Chips and enter the code that you'll find on the bag. You can enter as many codes as you want to start banking your points!

• The two new flavours, BBQ RIB and CHEDDAR AND SOUR CREAM are worth double points!

• Use your points to claim discounts on things to do with your family and friends all summer long!

You'll find major discounts at Great Wolf Lodge, Subway, Boston Pizza, Hertz Car Rental, CN Tower, museums, Marriott hotels, and so much more!

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and have some fun!

Disclosure: I am participating in the Lay’s Chip Trips program by Mom Central
on behalf of Frito Lay. I received Lay’s Chip Trip points and a gift card to offset
my trip costs to facilitate this post. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Let's talk about... sex, baby! Um, Sex and the City 2, that is!

2010-05-27T06:07:00.000-07:00

Last night, I attended the premier of Sex and the City 2, after winning tickets from Kelli. (Thank you!)

SATC2 has received some bad reviews and some so-so reviews. What did I think?

I liked it, and I would tell all my girlfriends to go see it. It's a fun girl movie. It was too long, though - it could have been at least 30 minutes shorter, and the entire wedding scene could have been eliminated from the movie (you'll have to watch the movie to see who got married!) but the characters are just as loveable the second time around on the big screen!

However, Carrie totally irritated me! I don't know why it took this long for me to realize how self-absorbed and whiny she is. I'm not going to give anything away, but she's just not cut out for normal married life! Hey Carrie - you can have all the glamour and fun and still enjoy a night in watching TV sometimes too, you know!

So basically, Charlotte, Miranda, Samantha and Carrie are sort of feeling 'blah' in their lives - with work, children, and the usual day-to-day life events, but guess what? Samantha saves the day! Through her connections she jets the ladies off to an all-expense paid trip to Abu Dhabi. From this point on the movie got good - not as great as the first one, but still, plenty of funny scenes as the ladies experience a totally different culture from the one they are accustomed to. The private plane they were on wasn't too shabby, either!

So how did over-sexed Samantha - and the others - do in the Middle East? This exerpt of a review I read sums it up:

"[Director] King manages to navigate sex and the Middle East, religion, female power in a male-dominated society and conservative values coming face-to-face with New York liberalism, without getting burned at the stake — or incurring an ethnic boycott — and for this, he deserves some credit."

My favourite scene was the one where Miranda and Charlotte have a discussion, over drinks, about their 'bad mom' moments. I bet every single one of us could relate to what they were saying!

For me, Samantha stole the show - with her hot flashes and inability to cover up! Her meonpausal temper tantrums were also hilarious - I love her! Truly, she is my favourite character on the show, along with Charlotte.

So while this move wasn't as good as the first one, it's still pretty awesome!

There is so much more I could say, but I don't want to give too much away - you'll have to see it for yourselves to find out what happens!

What did you think of SATC2?

Tales from the Trips: An interview and book giveaway!

2010-05-17T13:06:00.000-07:00

Update: Congrats, James, you are the winner of this book!

As a mother of two boys, I sometimes wonder how much harder things would be if I had more than two children. I imagine the age of two being especially difficult - imagine chasing after three two year olds who are running in different directions? Seems impossible, right?

A fellow blogger, John Cave Osborne, recently wrote a book called Tales From The Trips - How Three Babies Turned Our World Upside Down. The book is about his adventure as a father of triplets - two adorable boys and one girl. The book chronicles his life from when he and his wife found out they were expecting triplets to the day they learned to walk.

For a glimpse into the crazy life of a parent of triplets, you have to watch this video - it's so cute - you will not stop smiling. Even Ashton Kutcher and Alyssa Milano tweeted about it!

John send me a copy of his book to read, and I have enjoyed it very much - and not only that - he offered one for me to give away to one of my lucky readers!

I did a little a little q's and a's with the author, too:

As a father of triplets - what do you find the most challenged part of you day? Is it bathtime? Bedtime? Or the right-before-dinner part of your day?

Bedtime. Hands down. It’s not unusual for us to go upstairs ten times on any one given night. With three, the odds are overwhelming that at least one of them will give us trouble. They tend to rotate, as far as who the squeaky wheel will be, that is. Currently, our little girl goes down right away, while the boys, who share the same room, give us fits for the next couple of hours. Our little girl is kind enough to wait until four in the morning before starting in with her shenanigans.

How does your wife cope with the triplets - what are her words of wisdom?

Caroline doesn’t necessarily think she copes with them all that well. And I don’t necessarily think I cope with them all that well, either. (Not that you asked me.J) It’s difficult. Especially now that they’re toddlers. Simply put, there’s never a spare moment, especially on weekends when we don’t have any help. It’s funny, a lot of people ask us for words of wisdom, as if we’re, well, wise. But we don’t feel wise. We just feel tired.

Still, Caroline does have three (appropriately enough) tips she’d offer to anyone who suddenly finds themselves in our shoes.

1. Get as much help as you can.
2. Exercise regularly.
3. Pray for patience.

In your book, you were given pretty detailed instructions on how to prepare your oldest daughter's breakfast when your wife was in the hospital - does she still have to give you such instuctions about things like this, or have things gotten easier for you here? ;)

Ha. I love that part. You gotta remember, I was a bachelor well into my thirties. Before marrying Caroline, my roommate had been a brown dog, and we lived in a house which featured a refrigerator that never once contained milk. At the time of receiving Caroline’s detailed instructions, I was only ten months removed from that era, and far from the most domestic guy in the world. So, I needed every bit of direction I could get.

Does she still have to give me such detailed instructions? No. I’m good to go now. Consider it a baptism by fire, but I’m good to go.

What inspired you to right this book?

I’ve always loved to write. Before I started the granite countertop company with my business partner, I wrote quite regularly. I had a “humor column” I did monthly for a nearby local paper, and at one point was under contract with a Manhattan-based publisher for a children’s book I had written. I received an advance and worked on it with an incredible illustrator and editor. I was very excited for it to hit the shelves. Shortly before it was to go to press, however, the publisher went under. I was crestfallen.

So I buried myself in the countertop business and didn’t give writing a second thought. Until the little guys were born, that is. I was blown away by the reaction we got whenever we went out in public. We couldn’t even make it to the grocery store and back without fielding dozens of questions from complete strangers. It seemed that a story was happening to us—one that was of great interest to others. Given how much I like to write, I decided to document it.

I’d love for this book to open other doors for me. I’ve already had a couple of things fall in my lap, and I’m hoping that trend continues. But even if it doesn’t, the worse-case scenario is that this book will serve as the coming-of-age gift of a lifetime for my four children—a gift which details an exciting era in the history of our family.

And that’s what really inspired me to write it—to give that gift to them. Anything else that happens would be gravy.

You were recently chosen to interview the one and only Dooce - how was that experience?

It was interesting. Going into it, I didn’t know that much about her. I’ve only read Heather a couple of times, and honestly? I don’t really understand what all the hoopla’s about. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not some bitter Heather hater. I think it’s awesome that she’s had the success she’s had with her blog. But I liken her to Kate Gosselin. It’s undeniable that she’s struck a chord with pop culture, but she doesn’t appeal to me. Still, I jumped at the opportunity to do the interview as I figured it’d be a nice chance to gain a little exposure.

I was given the choice to conduct it by phone or email. I chose email because it’d be so much easier. When her “personal assistant” emailed me back with her responses, I was pleasantly surprised by what I read. Rightly or wrongly, I’ve always considered Heather to be a crass and pessimistic person—maybe even a bit mean-spirited. But she came off sweet and a lot more sensitive than I would have imagined, particularly with regard to people’s opinion of her.
For your chance to win a copy of Tales From The Trips, just leave me a comment telling me how you think you'd be able to handle triplets!

For an extra entry, follow my review blog!

I will pick a winner randomly on Friday, May 21st. This contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents.

Need a new pair of glasses?

2010-05-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

For the last several years, I have noticed that I squint more when I am driving. In fact, I can pretty much not read any road signs that are not, like, RIGHT in front of me.

This is not such a good thing. I know I need eyeglasses, and I have been looking around for a pair that is just right for me.

By chance, I was recently contacted by Glasses USA to review their site and was offered a discount on their prescription glasses and glasses - and boy, do they have a lot to choose from - including some great designer glasses, like Dior, Ralph Lauren, and Ray-Ban.

If you're in the need for a new pair of glasses, check out their website.

They are offering my readers a 10% discount off any presciption eyeglasses!

Just enter the discount code Mommy10 when you're placing your order.

Here's hoping your vision improves - I'm on a mission to find just the right pair of glasses for me!

A review... and a giveaway too!

2010-05-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

Update: Congrats to lucky number 15 - Lady Mama - you are the winner of the Melissa and Doug wooden fruit cutting toy!

I recently received a very awesome tent for my children from CSN Stores. CSN Stores carries so many high quality items for children, I literally spent over an hour browsing through everything they sell - from outdoor play structures, to educational toys and children's furniture.

Not only does CSN have thousands of items for children (literally anything you can imagine) but they also have amazing products for the home, too - from bedroom furniture to funky wine glasses.

My husband set up the tent before my boys came home the day it arrived, and they were both so excited when they saw the tent set up in our living room! They both 'moved in' right away, and requested I bring them snacks and juice to enjoy in their new 'home'.

The tent has since made it's way outside, to our backyard, where my children continue to have a lot of fun in it, playing together... which is a bonus for me, too!

CSN is generously giving you something awesome, too - enter below for your chance to win this Melissa and Doug Play Food Cutting Food Crate. My boys love the Melissa and Doug fruit cutting sets!

To enter, just leave me a comment telling me what you loved to play with when you were a child!

The contest is open to both US and Canadian residents. I'll randomly pick a winner on May 11th, 2010.

Good Luck!

Ready, Set, Party!

2010-05-03T07:37:00.000-07:00

If you're pregnant or if you have recently had a baby, this a great idea for you!

You can be part of the HUGGIES "Happy Healthy Baby" party sponsored by Huggies, Playskool, WhereParentsTalk.com and Heritage RESPs!

All you have to do is fill out the online host application, and enter a draw to win one of 8 Heritage RESPs (valued at $2,500). You might even win a Personal Chef dinner for four - a value of $600! Yum! That's not all - you might also win a a toy gift pack from Playskool!

If you're selected as one of only 500 party hosts, you’ll receive a Party Pack filled with lots of free goodies for you and your friends, and be truly be the "Host with the most!"

Go to: Ready Set Party to find out more about this fun event!

2010-04-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

I was recently introduced to a fabulous new Canadian clothing company that offers trendy, comfortable and affordable clothes for children called Mini Mioche. As you all know, I love to shop. Not only for myself, but for my children, too.

I'm picky about what I buy for my boys - I like high quality items, at a few select stores, and I love to dress them in 100% cotton. My oldest son once wore a pair of polyester pj's to bed and woke up scratching himself. Since then, I'm extra picky when looking at the labels.

As a Mini Mioche mom, I was lucky to receive a few pieces from their spring line to test out on my youngest son. He received an awesome pair of casual cotton pants, a cute polo style t-shirt, and a long sleeved white shirt. The thing I loved right away? The feel. The cotton is super soft. The company only uses the absolute softest organic cotton - and the clothes fit great, too! I loved them. Huge bonus? They are stylish. The clothes are made in Toronto, too!

Check out Mini Mioche - how cute are the clothes? YOU can also receive 20% off your purchase! All you have to do is enter the code: surfer to receive your online discount. (The code will expire at the end of May, and both Canadian and US residents can use it!)

Happy shopping!

And stay tuned -I'm having a fun Melissa and Doug giveaway soon from an awesome company that sells everything from swing-sets to toys and books to kids bedding! It's an awesome website - and you're sure to find just what you're looking for your children!